Forklift Safety Rules and Tips
Within the US, 20,000 individuals are hurt each year in accidents connected to the utilization of forklifts. And each and every year about 100 deaths are attributed to forklift accidents. Luckily, correct training regarding maintenance and operation procedures could considerably lessen the risk of accidents. The basic safety regulations and tips below must be followed whenever utilizing a forklift.
Training
The employer is responsible for making certain that employees are trained to use a forklift and have undergone a correct training program. Training involves a combination of lectures, presentations, discussions and practical hands-on training. Reevaluation should occur every three years. Operators of forklifts have to be up-to-date with current forklift safety rules. Forklift training program content covers general workplace hazards, dangers of forklift operations, dangers connected to operating the specific forklift which the employee would be utilizing and workplace lighting and surfaces. An employee should be 18 years of age or over to operate a forklift.
Maintenance
Forklift inspections should be carried out daily to ensure the safe and proper functioning of the equipment. The inspection involves keeping a checklist of things and reporting any concerns at once.
The Workplace
Having a clean and safe workplace is vital in the safe use of a forklift. A safe work place means establishing "traffic lanes" which are just designated for forklift use. Warning systems like for instance horns and flashing lights must 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 daily.
General Guidelines
Included in the general safety rules of utilizing a forklift are respecting the forklift load capacity and never going over the maximum; avoiding known hazards on the ground, like wet spots or oil spills; ensuring there is enough clearance for the load; raising or lowering the load only while the forklift is stationary; and keeping hands, arms and legs inside the vehicle during operation.