FIX: Drive backwards - If you cannot see past the load, drive the forklift backwards.Īnother major cause of forklift tipping is uneven and insecure loads. Warn drivers of changing floor gradients and rampsĮven when operating a forklift safely and carrying a load as low as possible, vision can often be impaired which may cause accidents with pedestrians or infrastructure.Mark forklift areas with wall signs and floor markings.Keep doors and intersections clear of obstructions. FIX: Maintain a safe area for forklift operation. Layout plays a big role in forklift safety. If there is minimal aisle space, invest in a narrow-aisle forklift. Make sure the forklift is appropriate for the space it will be used in. In addition, wear a seatbelt if one is provided.Ĭonsider workplace design when purchasing a forklift. FIX: Only ride in proper seats - Never ride on the forklift anywhere that is not a proper seat. It’s never a good idea to ride on the forks or use body parts to balance loads. It may seem harmless, but riding anywhere on the forklift or forklift load that is not a proper seat can be extremely dangerous. Mark aisles, pedestrian walkways, ledges, traffic flow, and hazard areas. FIX: Mark your facility - Floor tape and floor signs are the most efficient option for marking forklift zones due to ease of application and durability. Prevent accidents by warningĮmployees and visitors with ample signs and floor markings. Marking forklift zones is paramount to safety, especially where both forklift and foot traffic are present. To avoid tipping, slow down before the turn and maintain a gradual speed through the entire rotation. FIX: Slow down for turns - Turning a corner too fast can cause the forklift to tilt. They turn with the rear wheels which causes the rear end to swing outward, increasing the chance of tipping during tight turns. Driving with an elevated load makes it hard to see, the forklift harder to control, and can cause crashes or the forklift to tip.- FIX: Keep forks low - OSHA regulations encourage drivers to carry loads as near to the ground as possible, approximately 4 inches from the floor. Operating a forklift with an elevated load.OSHA advises drivers to stay at or below 5 miles per hour.- FIX: Slow down - Post speed limit signs around the facility, and make sure forklift drivers know the rules and follow them. Traveling too fast on a forklift shortens reaction time and leads to accidents. FIX: Provide training - OSHA requires that every forklift operator be trained and certified to operate a forklift, and the operator’s performance be evaluated on the provisions of 1910.178(l)(3) every three years.įorklift drivers often become too comfortable and drive irresponsibly. Additionally, new inventory, obstacles, changes in floor gradient, or nearby pedestrians can all cause problems for inexperienced operators. Not knowing how the forklift works or proper protocol for carrying loads is an accident waiting to happen. Training is the first step in forklift safety. 10 Common Forklift Accidents and How They Can Be Prevented If companies implemented more stringent training policies, OSHA estimates that about 70% of forklift accidents in the US could be prevented. (this assumes only one accident per forklift, with the useful life of a truck being about 8 years)
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