National Forklift Safety Day is June 8, 2021! While HAWKER® supports this national day of recognition, we also value safety in the workplace each and every day. As a leading supplier of industrial forklift batteries, we know the importance of these devices, as well as their potential danger points.
Forklifts are incredibly useful in the material handling industry. However, these large pieces of equipment can be dangerous when not operated correctly. OSHA estimates forklifts cause about 85 fatal accidents per year, with 34,900 forklift accidents result in serious injury. These safety tips should help you lower risks, maintain a safe workplace, and prevent potential hazards.
Like any major piece of equipment, forklift operators need proper training to know the ins and outs of this machinery. Not only is it responsible, but it is also a legal obligation.
The correct workwear for forklift operators includes personal protective equipment such as hard hats, protective footwear, and high-visibility clothing.
Forklift operators need to thoroughly inspect their forklifts before every use. By completing a routine check, employees can observe any problems and report them to management.
Those seatbelts are there for a reason! Overturned forklifts are a leading cause of forklift-related accidents, and seatbelts can help protect operators from harm.
Operators must be able to see 360 degrees to be aware of pedestrians, bumps in the road, or other hazards that could impact their surroundings. Operators should use rear-view mirrors, headlights, and eye contact to widen their visibility of the area.
A floor marking system uses colors and symbols to allow clarity for a forklift’s path of direction. Not only will this system keep employees safe, but it will also help the general flow of traffic.
Loads that are too heavy or too high can cause a forklift to become uneven and unbalanced. When operating a forklift, never exceed the maximum capacity and check the load carefully before moving.
Maintaining the speed limit not only protects pedestrians but the forklift operators themselves. Operators should avoid speeding and sharp turns, as these events can lead to a forklift tipping over.
While this may seem obvious, it’s not recommended to allow other workers onto the forklift. Unless there is a second seat, no one besides the forklift operator should be riding on or lifted by a forklift.
At the end of a shift, forklift operators should safely park forklifts in a designated area. When forklifts are returned, they can then recharge and refuel.
*Always consult your forklift manufacturer for their recommended best safety practices.
Harness your forklift fleet’s power with HAWKER®. Our representatives will help you keep your equipment going strong, so you can keep supply chains moving forward.
