Simple mistakes on a forklift can have serious consequences for the operator and others near the vehicle. Therefore, it is important that all operators be trained on safety rules they must obey while on and near the forklift. As equally important as knowing the ABCs of safely using a forklift is knowing which mistakes to avoid.
Wearing the Wrong Clothes
While operating the forklift, it is important that the operators wear the appropriate clothing. The right clothing includes safety shoes, hard hat, and a highly visible jacket. As an added precautionary measure, you should wear safety gloves.
Without the right clothing, you could place yourself in danger. For instance, clothes that are too loose can get caught in the forklift.
Failing to Observe the Vehicle's Capacity
The forklift's weight capacity needs to be known by every operator. You also need to ensure that no one is exceeding the weight capacity for the forklifts. When the weight of a loan exceeds the forklift's capacity, the vehicle becomes more challenging to properly steer. Too much weight can also result in the forklift tipping, which could lead to serious injuries.
In addition to knowing the weight capacity, the operators need to properly load the forklift. An improperly stacked load could make it difficult to navigate narrow areas and even lead to problems with steering the vehicle.
Skipping Daily Checks Before Using Forklift
In addition to the routine maintenance that is necessary to ensuring the forklift is in good condition, daily checks of the forklift need to be completed before it is used. The battery levels and hydraulic fluid are just two of the checks that are needed.
The tires and steering column also need to be checked. If there are any warnings activated, they need to be addressed before starting the forklift.
Failing to Plan a Route
Depending on the layout of the workplace, navigating through the area could be challenging on a forklift. Obstacles could lead to delays in getting loads from one location to the other. To avoid this, operators should take the time to plan their routes before transferring a load.
If there are adjustments that need to be made to the way the load is distributed to ensure the forklift can navigate smoothly through certain locations, now is the time to make those modifications.
Review these safety mistakes and standard operating procedures with every operator of the forklifts in your business. For more information, contact a business such as Independent Lift Truck Of Alaska.
Share11 April 2017
My name is Autumn, and I'm glad you are here. I am one of very few women who work in construction. Yes, I operate heavy machinery. I also use power tools and climb up on planks high in the air. I am a construction worker, and I am just as good at it as my male co-workers. In fact, I often consider myself even better. I hope this blog will help people understand that women can choose to do anything that interests them, and that it is okay for a women to pursue careers that are traditionally reserved for men.
