Forklift Safety Rules and Tips
Within the United States, 20,000 people are hurt every year in accidents related to the use of forklifts. And every year around 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training concerning maintenance and operation procedures can significantly lessen the risk of accidents. The basic safety regulations and tips below should be followed when utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that workers are qualified to use a forklift and have undergone a proper training program. Training involves a combination of lectures, presentations, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation must take place every three years. Operators of forklifts must be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content includes dangers of forklift operations, general workplace hazards, workplace surfaces and lighting, and dangers related to utilizing the specific forklift which the worker would be utilizing. An employee should be at least 18 years old to utilize a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be done daily to guarantee the proper and safe functioning of the machinery. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any problems at once.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is important in the safe use of a forklift. A safe work place means establishing "traffic lanes" which are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems such as flashing lights and horns should be in place to be able to indicate when there is an approaching forklift. Forklift docking stations must be kept in good repair and inspected on a daily basis.
General Guidelines
General safety guidelines for forklift use consist of ; respecting the forklift load capacity and never exceeding the maximum; lowering or raising the load only when the forklift is stationary; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; and keeping hands, arms and legs inside the vehicle during operation.