The 5 Forklift Safety Tips Everybody Needs to Know

Dec 02, 2023

For all their benefits, forklifts bring with them numerous hazards that endanger both drivers and pedestrians.

For all its benefits, forklifts bring with them numerous hazards that endanger both drivers and pedestrians. Although they move heavy loads and increase work efficiency, forklifts may cause serious injuries when used unsafely.

With that said, there are 5 forklift safety tips that everybody should keep in mind.

Forklifts need to be thoroughly inspected before daily use. Everyday checking with the shift supervisor is required in order to determine and log any defects or problems. Also, any equipment that needs repair should never be operated.

Here are some of the recommended checks you need to include:

Running or working with forklifts is quite dangerous. It requires extreme alertness and focus. Thus, any use of alcohol or drugs (opioid painkillers, sedatives, or antihistamines that cause drowsiness, or worse illegal drugs that alters your judgment) should be avoided before operating a forklift.

Even muscle relaxants that affect your physical body should be avoided since they can affect your reflex time.

There are a lot of things you need to follow while you’re behind wheels in order to prevent accidents. For one, you need to make sure that the load is balanced and is fully secure in order to prevent the forklift from tipping over.

Both forks should be as far under the load as possible before lifting. Also, drivers should drive as low as safely as possible. Always look in the direction you are traveling. In case the load blocks your view, drive in reverse.

Make sure to use horns at intersections as well as areas where pedestrians may be present and walking by.

Making eye contact and nodding are not just friendly gestures. These can prevent an accident. As a pedestrian, you need to make sure to have eye contact with the driver before passing by. Make sure that the driver acknowledges you in some way before moving.

Remember all the things that can obstruct someone's vision, so do not assume that you will be seen.

Even if you are not operating the forklift, it is important that you take safety steps to keep other workers safe.

Ideally, operators and pedestrians should be vigilant all the time in order to prevent any accidents and injuries when operating a forklift. And with the above tips, you can make your workplace a lot safer and efficient.