Forklift Safety

Warehouse forklifts are an important part of the workings of many businesses and factories, including grocery outlets, lumber yards, industrial complexes and many other applications. The biggest problem is that many people think that a forklift is like driving a car, and therefore fail to take any forklift safety courses, which can be a dangerous and even fatal mistake.

If you have any doubt whatsoever about how important safety for warehouse forklifts is, check out these statistics taken in 2006 from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. On average, 100 workers are killed each year, and 20,000 injured every year due to forklift accidents. Forklift overturns are the highest, causing twenty two percent of accidents. People being hit accounts for 20%, getting crushed by a forklift 16%, and drivers falling off them 9%.

In 2005, warehouse forklifts ranked sixth for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, (OSHA,) top ten violators. Just last year, OSHA issued over 3,000 violations for forklift safety. Clearly, forklift safety courses should be high on an employer’s list of priorities.

Here are just a few tips on forklift safety. One certainty is to centre your load as much as possible; the heaviest part should be closest to the front wheels. Never ever overload a forklift - that is why its load capacity is clearly marked. Never raise or lower the forks while in motion, and take turns slowly, to prevent tipping. Never tilt the forks with a load in a raised position, unless you are loading or unloading.

Some other important lessons, when you are moving a load, keep the load as low as possible - 5-10" above the floor is ideal. If the load tips for some reason, it won't go that far. Drive slowly, and keep focused on the task at hand, being aware of people around you. Make sure, that when you are lifting your warehouse forklift load, there is enough overhead clearance.

There are many other valuable warehouse forklifts safety tips you should know. In fact, there are many safety courses offered for little or no cost. You should also make sure you read all the safety information that comes with your new warehouse forklift, and keep it on hand when others will be using it. Many states require a special operator’s license for running a forklift, and these require you to take a safety course before you can get one.

You can find out about forklift safety online, including courses offered as well as statistical information from many sources. Should you end up purchasing a used warehouse forklift because of budgeting concerns, you can often get a free copy of safety instructions from the manufacturer. You can also go to one of your local safety offices, and find out information. The department of motor vehicles can direct you to what you need to get a forklift operator’s license.

With all the warehouse forklifts safety issues, it is a good idea not only to educate yourself and your staff, take the proper precautions, but also keep up on any added requirements periodically. This will not only ensure that you all are up to date, but also that your employees don't forget things they have learned.