Forklift Safety Rules and Suggestions
In the United States, 20,000 people are hurt every year in accidents connected to the use of forklifts. And each and every year around 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Fortunately, correct training regarding operation procedures and maintenance could significantly lessen the chance of accidents. The following basic safety regulations and tips should be followed whenever using a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that workers are qualified to operate a forklift and have undergone a correct training program. Training includes a combination of lectures, presentations, practical hands-on training and discussions. Reevaluation must occur every three years. Operators of forklifts have to be up-to-date with current forklift safety regulations. Forklift training program content includes general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers connected to using the particular forklift which the worker will be using and workplace surfaces and lighting. An employee must be 18 years of age or over to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections must be carried out on a daily basis in order to ensure the proper and safe functioning of the machine. The inspection includes keeping a checklist of items and reporting any problems right away.
The Workplace
Having a safe and clean workplace is essential in the safe use of a forklift. A safe work site means establishing "traffic lanes" that are only designated for forklift use. Warning systems like for instance flashing lights and horns must be in place 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
Included in the general safety guidelines of using a forklift are ; respecting the forklift load capacity 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 arms, legs and hands in the vehicle during operation.