Did you know that around 62,000 injuries involving forklifts happen every year?
Are you worried about forklift safety? Do you want to avoid the tragic accidents that make national news?
Forklift accidents are some of the most devastating industrial accidents. They can result in lost work time and, in some cases, lost lives. In short, it is crucial to always have safety in mind.
Here are 4 forklift safety tips everyone should be following.
1. Wear the Right Gear
When it comes to forklift safety, one of the most important tips to remember is to wear the right gear. This means making sure you have the proper clothing. These include a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
You should also wear a hard hat to protect your head from falling objects. If you will be working near chemicals, you should also wear gloves, goggles, and a respirator. By taking the time to dress properly, you can help reduce the risk of forklift accidents or injuries.
2. Inspect a Forklift Before a Work Shift
It’s important to inspect a forklift before a work shift to ensure that it is safe to operate. You must do a pre-shift inspection each day before you use the forklift.
The inspection should include a check of the tires, brakes, steering, hydraulics, and engine. Any issues should get fixed before using the forklift.
Checking the battery is a vital part of the inspection. Make sure that the battery is properly secured.
The terminals should also be clean and free of corrosion. Check the electrolyte level in the battery, and if it’s low, add distilled water.
3. Don’t Overload the Lift
When it comes to forklift safety, one of the most important things to remember is to never overload the lift. This can lead to serious injury in the workplace. It can also damage the forklift itself.
Always make sure to check the weight limit of the forklift before attempting to lift anything. After knowing the limit, be sure to never go beyond it.
If you are unsure about how much weight the forklift can safely lift, always err on the side of caution. To be sure, consult with a supervisor or other safety professional. You can click for more info about forklift safety here.
4. Take It Slow and Steady
Forklifts are powerful machines that can cause serious injuries if not operated safely. That’s why it’s important to take it slow and steady when operating a forklift.
By taking it slow, you can avoid sudden movements that could cause the forklift to tip over. And by taking it steady, you can maintain control of the forklift and avoid accidents.
Next time you’re operating a forklift, remember to take it slow and steady. This will not only be for your safety but for those around you as well.
Prioritizing Forklift Safety
Forklifts are essential for many businesses. But they can also be dangerous. That’s why it’s essential to follow forklift safety procedures. It’s also important to focus on proper training for your forklift operators.
Doing so will help keep your employees safe. In the process, it will also help prevent accidents and injuries from happening.
Head over to our blog to read more safety tips to keep your workplace as safe as possible.