Forklift Safety Dos and Don’ts

Forklift Safety Dos and Don’ts

Forklift Safety Dos and Don’ts

Forklifts are widely used in industries and warehouses to handle materials. It is a machine with motorized forks at the front and a counterweight in position to maintain the center of gravity while lifting, lowering and moving the material. Most forklifts are powered by a combustion engine and are used for outdoor use, while battery powered forklifts are preferable for indoor use.

The forklift is the most useful machine, but it can be dangerous if not handled properly and therefore should only be used by trained operators. It is very important to maintain this machine through routine inspection and maintenance to avoid unwanted incidents.

The Dos and Don’ts of forklift safety should be communicated to operators and workers so that they know basic safety precautions when using the forklift. The forklift operator must be a trained, certified, and competent person and must perform a check before every use. Operator must wear a seat belt and inspect surroundings before starting the engine. Ensure visibility when driving in the direction of travel.

Forklift Safety Dos and Don’ts

Here are the most useful safety Dos and Don’ts for forklift operation

Dos

1. The nominal lifting capacity must be indicated on the data plate/ nameplate.
2. The load on the forks must be balanced by the weight of the machine.
3. Stay in the marked lanes while moving equipment.
4. Stop and look around blind bends.
5. Establish positive communication with the operator.
6. Ensure good visibility for operators through the mirrors.
7. Separate forklift traffic and workers where possible.
8. Restrict use near main exits, rest rooms and canteens.
9. Install physical barriers to isolate the aisles used.
10. Use horns, alarms and flashing lights to warn workers.
11. When transporting the load, manage the safety speed according to the surface condition, the load and the size of the material.
12. Always drive the forklift truck with the forks lowered with safe ground clearance.
13. Watch out for pedestrians and obstacles on the way to travel.
14. Be alert on bends and slow down on bends, at the point of entry, on uneven surfaces, at gates and at the point of danger.
15. Sound horn in dangerous places to alert pedestrians or other vehicles.
16. Wear a seat belt
17. Tilt back slightly and lift
18. Always apply the parking brake and make sure the forks are on the ground before leaving the truck.
19. Follow the routine inspection and maintenance schedule to keep the lift truck in good condition.
20. Always carry out annual tests and inspections by a competent person and renew the certificate of competency.

Don’ts

1. Don’t overload the lift truck above its rated capacity.
2. Don't let the tracks you use become clogged with clutter.
3. Don't drive fast or make sharp turns.
4. Don’t allow rush driving and should not stop suddenly when braking hard.
5. Don’t store bins or shelves in corners that may obstruct view.
6. Don’t allow the operator to lift or transport personnel.
7. Don’t walk within reach of the forks or stand under the lifted load.
8. Don’t attempt to pick up loose materials or unfamiliar containers.
9. Don't drive without an idea of ​​the terrain and edges.
10. Don’t attempt to lift higher than the reach of the lift.
11. Don’t drive straight down inclines – drive down in reverse.
12. Don’t brake suddenly or lift loads before coming to a complete stop.
13. Don’t allow the stack of loads to be offset or tilted.
14. Don’t use a forklift that is not certified and does not work properly.
15. Don’t operate the forklift mechanism from outside the vehicle cab.
16. Don’t drive over uneven surfaces, live cables, flexible pipes, rebars and iron angles.
17. Don’t operate the forklift under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
18. Don’t use cell phone while using a forklift.

Summary

Forklift Safety Dos and Don'ts should be posted in the workplace to remind operators and workers of safety precautions when using the forklift for material handling. A competent operator, routine inspection and preventive maintenance of the forklift truck can help prevent potential risks of accidents.

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Safety quiz on forklift safety – Multiple choice question answers

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