In almost every warehouse and plant you will find a forklift. These mobile machines make every day activities possible and get the job done faster. Although forklifts are necessary, they can also be dangerous. Today’s blog focuses on forklift safety in an effort to keep employees safe and property damage-free.
Certification:
Ensure that all forklift operators have proper training that is up-to-date. Once per year, ensure all new operators have complete training and more experienced drivers are refreshed. Drivers must be trained on your company’s forklift operation policies as well as safety guidelines outline by the forklift’s manufacturer.
General purpose safety:
Double check: inspect brakes, steering, forks, warning devices, lights, and all other mechanics before each job. If there are any questions or concerns, tell a supervisor immediately.
Classify the job: be sure to plan ahead when hoisting hazardous materials or toxic substances. If additional training is needed to handle these materials, forklift drivers must complete all necessary programs.
Capacity: Know the capacity of the vehicle and do not overload it.
Carrying loads: Ensure loads are balanced between each fork, do not put more weight on one fork over the other. When lifting, lowering, or carrying, always keep the mast of the vehicle tilted back slightly and never forward. Avoid any jerking motions when lifting or lowering.
Drive safely: Establish and enforce warehouse speed limits and traffic patterns with signage and brightly colored marking tape. Keep traffic areas free from clutter and obstacles.
Unloading: Tilt the elevated load forward only when it’s directly over the loading place. Lower forks slowly.
More safety tips:
- Always be aware of overhead clearance.
- Avoid collisions by slowing your speed and watching for safety mirrors to see around corners.
- Start and stop slowly.
- Never travel with a raised load, keep forks as close to the floor as possible.
- Stay away from the edges of inclines, ramps, and docks.
Provide thorough training and follow the above safety tips to keep employees and equipment safe every day.
-MS
