The forklift is one of the most common material handling machines, used for loading and moving large and heavy loads with little effort. A forklift truck reduces the operator fatigue and prevents back injuries. Although efficient and easy to operate, the forklift trucks can be extremely dangerous if not operated safely. Usually, forklift accidents happen when:
- the operator is not trained well for operating a forklift truck;
- the operator is not familiar with the forklift capabilities;
- the operator is operating the forklift truck recklessly;
- the forklift truck is not maintained and serviced regularly;
The number of forklift accidents is significantly increased over the last few years. Some reports state that around 100 employees get fatal injuries every year due to forklift truck accidents. Because the forklifts are used for various applications, from warehouses to large construction job sites, the potential hazards for operators vary. For increased safety, here is a simple forklift safety checklist that must be read by everyone who use or work near forklift trucks:
- Don’t enter the forklift cab if you are not well-trained;
- Before any operation, make sure that the forks are in proper position;
- Perform inspections on a daily basis to ensure a proper operation;
- Maintain and inspect the forklift truck regularly;
- Use appropriate safety equipment, such as safety shoes, hard hat and hi-visibility jacket;
- Always drive carefully and smoothly at low speed, especially on slippery or congested surfaces;
- Read and try to understand everything included in the manufacturer’s manual;
- If there is a missing or damaged part, don’t use the forklift truck;
- Fasten your seat belt before using the forklift;
- Follow all safety procedures when picking, loading, lifting, moving, lowering and stacking loads;
- Never handle loads which are heavier than the overall capacity of your forklift truck;
- Be extremely careful when moving the forklift truck with elevated forks;
- Don’t use attachments that may affect the capacity and the safety of the operation;
- Always keep a safe distance when there other forklifts on the job site;
- Avoid moving the forklift truck on unsafe or unstable loads;
- Once your shift is over, park your forklift truck in a designated area, make sure the forks are fully lowered and the park brake applied.
