Forklift safety is non-negotiable in any workplace that uses these powerful machines. At TAG Forklift Trucks, we understand the importance of maintaining a safe working environment for forklift operators and pedestrians alike.
With years of experience in the industry, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top 10 rules for forklift safety to help keep your workplace safe and productive.
Why Is Forklift Safety So Important?
Forklift accidents can have devastating consequences, potentially causing serious injury or even fatalities. They can also significantly damage property and equipment, resulting in costly downtime and repairs. Following proper safety guidelines and procedures can greatly minimise these risks, ensuring a safer and more efficient workplace for everyone.
1. Only Certified Operators Drive Forklifts
The most important forklift safety rule is ensuring that only properly trained and certified operators use the equipment. Comprehensive forklift training is essential for anyone who will be operating these machines. A thorough forklift training course should cover:
- Basic operation and controls
- Load handling techniques
- Safety procedures and regulations
- Workplace hazards and how to avoid them
- Proper maintenance and pre-operation checks
TAG Forklift Trucks emphasises the importance of proper training. We offer a range of forklift training courses to suit various needs and skill levels.
2. Maintain Visibility and Awareness
Maintaining clear visibility at all times is crucial for safe forklift operation. Operators must constantly be aware of their surroundings, including other workers, obstacles, and potential hazards. Here are some key tips for maintaining visibility:
- Always travel with the forks low to the ground, typically 4-6 inches above the floor
- When carrying a load, ensure it doesn’t obstruct your view
- Use mirrors and look in the direction of travel, especially when reversing
- Always sound the horn when approaching corners, doorways, or areas with limited visibility
- Keep windows and mirrors clean and in good condition
3. Handle Loads Properly and Safely
Proper load handling is essential to prevent accidents and ensure the stability and balance of the forklift. Follow these guidelines:
- Never exceed the forklift’s rated capacity
- Centre and balance loads carefully before lifting
- Tilt the mast back slightly to stabilise the load
- Avoid sudden stops or starts that could cause the load to shift
- When travelling on inclines, always keep the load facing uphill
- Never allow anyone to stand or walk under a raised load
4. Control the Forklift’s Speed
Controlling speed is a critical factor in many forklift accidents. Operators must adhere to workplace speed limits and adjust their speed based on conditions such as floor surface, visibility, and pedestrian traffic. Remember:
- Slow down when turning corners or navigating tight spaces
- Reduce speed in areas with high pedestrian traffic
- Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles
- Be prepared to stop suddenly if necessary
5. Emphasise Pedestrian Safety
While much of the responsibility for forklift safety lies with the operator, pedestrians also play a role. Workplaces should implement clear guidelines for pedestrian safety, including:
- Designated pedestrian walkways and crossing points
- Clear signage indicating forklift operating areas
- Training for all employees on forklift awareness and safety
- Encouraging pedestrians to make eye contact with operators before crossing paths
Operators should always be vigilant and prepared to stop for pedestrians, even if they have the right of way.
6. Keep Up with Forklift Maintenance
Regular maintenance and pre-operation checks are vital for forklift safety. Before each shift, operators should:
- Check tyre condition and pressure
- Inspect forks for damage or excessive wear
- Test all controls, including brakes and steering
- Check fluid levels and look for any leaks
- Ensure all safety features, such as lights and horns, are functioning correctly
TAG Forklift Trucks offers comprehensive servicing and repair packages to keep your equipment in top condition, reducing the risk of accidents due to mechanical failure.
7. Wear Protective Equipment
Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for forklift operators. This typically includes:
- Safety shoes with steel toe caps
- High-visibility clothing
- Hard hat (in areas where there is a risk of falling objects)
- Gloves for improved grip and hand protection
In addition, operators should avoid getting anything caught in the machine’s moving parts. This means:
- Wearing fitted (not loose) clothing
- Tying back long hair
- Removing or securing jewellery
8. Implement an Efficient Workplace Design
A well-designed workplace can significantly reduce the risk of forklift accidents. Consider the following:
- Clearly marked traffic lanes for forklifts and pedestrians
- Adequate lighting in all work areas
- Proper storage systems to minimise the need for high stacking
- Wide aisles to allow for easy manoeuvring
- Convex mirrors at blind corners to improve visibility
9. Don’t Neglect Proper Parking and Shutdown Procedures
When parking a forklift or shutting it down at the end of a shift, operators should:
- Park on level ground, never on an incline
- Lower the forks completely to the ground
- Tilt the mast forward slightly
- Set the parking brake and put the controls in neutral
- Turn off the engine and remove the key
Never leave a forklift unattended with the engine running or the key in the ignition.
10. Refresh Forklift Safety Training
While initial training is crucial, ongoing refresher courses are equally important. In the UK, it’s recommended that operators undergo refresher training at least every three years. However, additional training may be necessary if:
- The operator is involved in an accident or near-miss
- The operator is observed operating the forklift unsafely
- The operator is assigned to use a different type of forklift
- There are significant changes to the workplace layout or procedures
TAG Forklift Trucks offers a range of refresher courses to keep your operators’ skills sharp and up-to-date with the latest safety practices.
Prioritising Forklift Safety in Your Workplace
Implementing these top 10 forklift safety tips can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in your workplace. Safety should always be the top priority when operating or working around forklifts. By fostering a culture of safety and providing proper training and equipment, you can create a more productive and secure work environment for everyone.
Contact TAG Forklift Trucks Today
If you need assistance with forklift safety training, equipment maintenance, or want to upgrade your fleet with safer, more modern forklifts, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experts help you ensure workplace safety and optimise your material handling operations. Give us a call today to discuss your forklift safety needs and how we can support your business.