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About
100 workers are killed each year as a result of forklift
accidents. About 1/4 of these fatalities are caused by
overturning. Other common causes are workers being struck
by materials, workers being struck by the forklift, and
workers falling from the forklift.
Forklift operation is not as simple as it looks. But with
a little experience, it's not an impossible skill to master.
Unfortunately, those who operate forklifts day in and
day out have a tendency to take short cuts and to ignore
basic safety rules. They develop the old " It can't
happen to me" attitude.
Identifying Forklift
Hazards
You can avoid becoming a statistic if you'll just take
the time to review forklift hazards and how to avoid them.
Try to keep them in mind each and every time you prepare
to use a forklift.
Tipping over and losing part of a load are the most common
causes of forklift-related injuries. Some factors you
need to consider include:
- The capacity of the forklift - can
it handle the size and weight of your load?
- Any odd characteristics of the load
- is it top heavy, cylindrical or awkward?
- The condition of the forklift -
are the forks damaged or is there some other problem
that could cause an accident?
- Where you are and where you are going
with the load - are there any obstacles, bumps, ramps,
people, cross aisles or narrow passageways to consider?
Other things going on that may be problematic - can co-workers
see you on the forklift; can they hear you?
| Forklift
Safety Rules |
| 1 |
Operate the forklift only if you've
been trained. |
| 2 |
Maintain a safe following distance
from other forklifts - about three vehicle lengths. |
| 3 |
Follow our speed limit and other
regulations. |
| 4 |
Drive with your load low - six
or eight inches off the ground - and tilted slightly
back. |
| 5 |
Exercise extra caution when
driving over duckboards and bridge plates and make
sure your load is within their capacity as well. |
| 6 |
Raise and lower your load only
when you are stopped. |
| 7 |
Stop and sound the horn at intersections. |
| 8 |
Avoid sharp turns. |
| 9 |
Keep you arms and legs inside
the vehicle. |
| 10 |
Be sure to wear a hard hat and
other protective equipment when necessary. |
| 11 |
Be sure your load is stable
and secure. |
| 12 |
When leaving the forklift, lower
the forks, neutralize the controls, shut it off
and set the brakes. |
Conclusion
Failing to act responsibly when you're behind the wheel
not only puts the load at risk, but puts you and co-workers
in danger. Please keep this in mind each time you prepare
to turn the key. |
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