When operating forklifts it is important to follow basic safety protocols. Each year thousands of workers get injured in forklift injuries and accidents. Some of these accidents are fatal. If you are an operator, follow these basic safety tips:
1. Get trained before you operate a forklift. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you might be surprised with how many people skip this step. All Toyota forklift operators should receive thorough training, testing and evaluations.
2. Never overload a truck. More than a quarter of all forklift accidents happen as a direct result of excess loads, causing the lift to tip over. Drivers should always be prepared for accidents, such as this, by wearing their seat belts to stop themselves from being thrown out of the vehicle and possibly being crushed when the vehicle topples over.
3. If the forklift does start to tip over, don’t jump! The safest place for you to be is in your seat. Grip the wheel tightly and use your feet to brace yourself.
4. Look for people around you, especially those on foot. Whenever you get to an intersection be sure to follow basic safety procedures. This includes slowing down and sounding your horn any time your vision is partially blocked.
5. Do safety inspections. Before you get on the forklift, make it a habit to do a quick inspection to make sure there are no issues.
6. Drive slowly. Always drive slowly, especially around turns and when there is a possibility that people might be around. You also need to remember to stop gradually. Any inclines, downgrades, or ramps are also things to pay special attention to. Sudden turns or stops can cause a forklift to get unbalanced, which is always a dangerous combination.
7. Don’t take extra passengers. Forklifts aren’t buses for you to pick people up and drop them off places. Unless the forklift is made for more than one person, don’t allow a side passenger to arrive.
8. Avoid lifting others with your forklift. Forklifts aren’t elevators. Don’t try lifting anyone on it, even if you think its secure. You never know what type of accident will arise and you never want to put someone in that type of situation.
