Forklift Safety Tips

A forklift can be very helpful in a wide variety of situations, and it is no surprise that forklifts have been integrated into a wide range of industries. However, there is a right way and a wrong way to do anything, and the wrong way usually leads to people getting hurt. For information about how to avoid workplace accidents, read this handy guide from Melton Machinery & Material Handling on forklift safety.

Preliminary Tips

A forklift should only be operated by a licensed operator who has taken all the relevant courses and received their certification. Even then, an operator should inspect the forklift before usage. A forklift in need of repair will be unsafe to operate, so report anything you find to your supervisor.

Forklifts steer from the rear and require a wide sweep in order to turn, so operators should account for this while using the forklift. Follow any and all regulations and rules such as the weight lift limit. Finally, operators should remember that leaving the keys in an unattended forklift is not only dangerous but illegal.

Forklift refueling should only be performed at designated, well-ventilated locations with the engine completely off. When not in use, a forklift should be parked in a safe, out-of-the-way location.

Operating Safely

Forklift operators should wear the appropriate safety clothing and use a seat belt at all times. However, the most important thing they can do to keep themselves and others safe is to pay attention to their environment. Many job sites have hazards like debris or slippery surfaces that can easily be avoided by a vigilant operator. Others will have obstacles that require certain actions to navigate safely. For instance, ramps can be driven up in forward gear as normal, but require the operator to reverse downward so that the forklift does not tip.

While operators should be actively maintaining a safe distance, wherever possible and at all times, the forklift’s horn is a good way to alert others that you are in motion. Above all, operators should use their heads and their eyes. Note any changes to the environment and react appropriately.

Loading Safely

There are many possible accidents that can result from improper forklift driving, but the most common is the load falling off the forks onto someone.  Always place loads as far back as possible to maintain balance and never carry more than the approved weight capacity. A forklift in motion should have its forks as low as possible. A forklift should never travel with its forks raised.

Many problems can be avoided if care and caution are taken while loading the forklift. Besides making sure the load is balanced stably on both forks, watch for skids or pallets that show signs of decay, warping, or otherwise appear damaged. These skids and pallets are unsafe and should not be loaded. Also, note that even a perfectly balanced load is unsafe if it blocks the operator from seeing. If the operator’s vision is obstructed, they should operate in reverse for improved visibility. The help of another person to guide the forklift around obstacles can make a huge difference, though care should be taken that all communication between the guide and operator is clear.

At Melton Machinery & Material Handling, safety is a top priority. For more information or to view our selection of forklift models, visit our dealership in Garden City, Idaho. We are proud to serve local communities like Boise and beyond.