Forklift Safety Suggestions & Guidelines
Within the United States, 20,000 individuals are injured every year in accidents connected to the use of forklifts. And each year around 100 deaths are caused by forklift accidents. Luckily, proper training about maintenance and operation procedures could considerably reduce the chance of accidents. The following basic safety rules and tips should be followed when utilizing a forklift.
Training
It is the duty of the employer to make certain that the correct training program is given to the employees and that forklift operators are certified.. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation should take place every three years. Forklift operators must be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, dangers connected to operating the particular forklift that the employee would be using and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee must be at least 18 years old to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
To make certain that the equipment is working properly and safely, forklift inspection must be done every day. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any problems at once.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is vital in the safe operation of a forklift. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are designated for forklift use only. Warning systems like for example horns and flashing lights must be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations should be inspected daily and kept in good repair.
General Guidelines
General safety rules for forklift use consist of ; respecting the load capacity of the forklift and never exceeding the maximum; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; making sure that there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping hands, arms and legs inside the vehicle during operation.