Forklift safety is crucial in preventing workplace injuries and ensuring the smooth operation of job sites. With forklifts being one of the most commonly used equipment, proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential. OSHA estimates that forklift accidents cause approximately 34,900 serious injuries and 85 fatalities annually in the United States. Alarmingly, 25% of these accidents result from inadequate training, highlighting the importance of comprehensive forklift training and regular refresher courses.
The Importance of Comprehensive Forklift Training
Comprehensive forklift training equips operators with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle forklifts safely and efficiently. A well-structured training program covers essential aspects such as equipment inspection, safe maneuvering techniques, load handling, and emergency procedures. Employers can reduce the risk of incidents and injuries on the job site by investing and partaking in proper forklift training.
Forklift Incidents in the Workplace
Before we share some of our safety tips, it’s important to understand the types of incidents that happen in the workplace. The primary causes of forklift accidents can be grouped into three main risk categories: user error, work environment, and mechanical design. A significant number of these accidents are due to inadequately trained personnel. According to OSHA, up to 70% of forklift incidents could have been prevented with adequate training.
Here are the leading causes of fatal forklift accidents, as identified by the Industrial Truck Association:
- Vehicle tip-over 42%
- Crushed by vehicle 36%
- Struck or run over by forklift 10%
- Struck by falling material 8%
- Fall from fork platform 4%
The leading cause of forklift fatalities is overturned vehicles. Factors contributing to tip-overs include user errors such as improper turning, driving with elevated loads, sudden stops or turns, and environmental factors like unstable surfaces and unclear forklift lanes.
Forklift Safety Tips from Our Experts
To ensure safety and prevent workplace injuries, consider the following forklift safety tips:
- Inspect the Equipment Daily: Before using a forklift, perform a thorough inspection. Check brakes, lights, horn, steering, mast, overhead guard, tire and fluid levels, and look for any potential hazards.
- Wear Proper Clothing: Operators should wear safety equipment such as safety shoes, hard hats, and high-visibility jackets. Ensure loose clothing is secured to prevent it from getting caught in the machinery.
- Maintain 360° Visibility: Keep forks low to the ground to maintain clear forward visibility. Use reverse operation if the load obstructs your view, and always use rear-view mirrors and headlights when necessary.
- Know the Equipment: Understand the specific type and class of forklift you are operating, including its weight limit, travelling speed, and turning radius.
- Implement a Floor Marking System: Use yellow markings for physical hazards and red for fire hazards and emergency switches. Clear signage helps keep pedestrians away from forklift paths and improves traffic flow.
- Ensure Load Stability: Check for balanced loads and use ropes or bindings if necessary. Keep forks low, and travel with the load tilted backward to enhance stability.
- Move at the Appropriate Speed: Adhere to designated speed limits and avoid sudden stops, turns, or changes in direction. In case of a tip-over, stay in the vehicle, grip the wheel, and brace your feet.
- Refuel and Recharge Safely: Perform these tasks in designated, well-ventilated areas free of flames. Always turn off the forklift before refuelling.
- Park Properly: At the end of the shift, park in designated areas, fully lower the forks, apply the parking brake, turn off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition.
Improving Safety with Forklift Training
Investing in comprehensive forklift training and regular refresher courses is essential for maintaining a safe workplace. Proper training enhances the safety of forklift operators, protects other workers, and reduces the risk of costly accidents.
Regular refresher courses are just as important as initial training. These courses help operators stay updated on the latest safety protocols and reinforce their skills. AIP Safety offers both forklift training courses and refresher courses designed to meet current CSA Standard Requirements and comply with Occupational Health and Safety regulations.