Forklifts are commonly used in seaports, construction sites, and warehouses to lift and transport heavy loads. However, operating these machines also poses a certain level of risk.
According to a study, forklift accidents still cause thousands of serious injuries and fatalities every year. A significant portion of these accidents is caused by inadequate training. Here are a few important tips to prevent accidents in forklift operations:
- Get Certified
To prevent accidents caused by inadequate forklift safety training, it’s highly recommended that only properly trained and licensed individuals operate forklifts. Employees who receive forklift safety training from Hamilton are better equipped to operate forklifts safely in the workplace.
Employers should ensure that their employees are trained and evaluated regularly following safety standards. Evaluations should take place at least once every 3 years, and training should be supplemented with various resources, such as forklift safety videos, lectures, software training, and demonstrations.
By providing ongoing training and evaluation, employers can promote a culture of safety and reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by forklift operations.
- Wear PPEs
Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential safety measure in any worksite, especially for forklift operators. PPEs such as hard hats, safety shoes, high-visibility vests, and earplugs can protect workers from hazards such as falling objects, loud noises, and accidents involving heavy machinery.
Forklift operators, in particular, should also wear a seatbelt, as forklift overturns are one of the most common causes of serious injuries and fatalities involving forklifts. If you or someone you know has been injured in a forklift accident, a personal injury lawyer from Oshawa can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for your injuries.
Other workers in the worksite should also wear PPE to protect themselves from the hazards present in the area. Employers should provide their workers with the necessary PPE and ensure that they are worn at all times while on the job. By prioritizing PPE, employers can create a safer working environment for everyone involved.
- Inspect the forklift at the start of every work shift
Inspecting a forklift at the start of every work shift is an essential safety practice that can help prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace. Before operating a forklift, the operator should inspect the machine for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks.
They should also check the fluid levels, brakes, tires, and steering to ensure that everything is in good working condition. By conducting a thorough inspection, the operator can identify any potential problems and address them before any issue will cause an accident.
Regular inspections will also help extend the life of the forklift, reduce maintenance costs, and increase productivity. In short, it’s crucial to make forklift inspections a routine part of every work shift to promote a safer working environment.
- Ensure 360° driving visibility
Ensuring 360° driving visibility is critical in maintaining safety while operating a forklift. It’s essential to keep the forks low to the ground, providing clear forward visibility. If the load obstructs visibility, operating the equipment in reverse is a safer alternative.
Always ensure you have a clear view of the rack when positioning the load. Several best practices to further enhance forklift visibility, such as making eye contact with pedestrians and other workers, looking in the direction of travel, and using rear-view mirrors to boost visibility, should be maintained.
Using headlights is also crucial when working at night, outdoors, or in areas with insufficient lighting. By following these guidelines, forklift operators can promote a safer working environment and reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by poor visibility.
- Keep forklift capacity in mind
To prevent accidents and damage to equipment and materials, it’s important to be mindful of the capacity of the forklift and any attachments used. Avoid hauling loads that exceed the counterweight of the forklift, as overloading can cause the rear wheels to lift off the ground and lead to a dangerous situation.
- Do not allow passengers
It’s not safe to allow other workers to ride on the forklift with you unless the forklift has passenger seats. Also, avoid using the forklift to lift people since it’s not designed for that purpose. Instead, always use a secure work platform and a forklift safety cage to lift a person safely.
- Make sure the loads are secure and stable
To ensure stability when placing loads on the loading dock, always check their balance. Tilt the load backward while traveling and keep the forks low, especially when navigating on ramps, to increase equipment stability. If needed, use ropes or bindings to secure stacks and heavy loads, and ensure that the pallets or skids being used are suitable for the load’s weight.
Forklift safety should be a top priority for every worker and employer on the worksite. By following the safety tips discussed earlier, accidents and mishaps can be prevented. Purchase additional safety accessories for forklifts, such as the forklift rear guard, to offer more protection to the driver. With proper training, safety equipment, and a commitment to safety, everyone can play a role in making the worksite a safe and secure place.
