Accidents caused by forklifts are very common. There are many reasons for these accidents, but the reality is that most accidents can be prevented and avoided.
Main risks when transporting goods with forklift
Forklifts can cause accidents of different severity in the warehouse, the most common of which are as follows:
● collision
● forklift overturn
● load falling
● personnel falling
● forklift falling from height
● fire and explosion
● joint trauma
● poisoning and suffocation
How to prevent forklift accidents? Main preventive measures
Training safety awareness
The main measures to avoid accidents are to provide operators with correct training on daily use of machinery: theoretical and practical courses, specific training for different types of forklifts (front counterweight forklift, forward moving forklift and electric pallet truck), and the differentiated characteristics of each brand or model.
Train operators in the correct way to get on and off the truck to avoid injury to the back or other parts of the body due to incorrect ergonomic problems.
The driver is aware of the need to strictly abide by all rules and precautions related to forklift handling and driving. For example, always wear seat belts when driving and use personal protective equipment (PPE): helmets, boots, gloves, etc. Corresponding.
Driving related measures
● do not drive at a speed of more than 10 km / h in a closed field or 20 km / h in an open space. In this sense, it is important to place signs warning of these restrictions.
● reduce speed when turning or turning.
● in wet or slippery floor areas, your speed is even slower.
● provide the truck with a 30 degree steering system on the forklift seat for reverse operation.
● get the best visibility throughout the operation. To do this, use mirrors at intersections and corners.
● when handling large goods, please use elevated seats or suspension seats.
● detect glare areas and take appropriate measures to avoid glare.
● provide sufficient space for forklift traffic and all necessary maneuvers.
● always lift the fork about 15cm off the ground and drive with a backward tilt.
● drive on a suitable ramp. It is also recommended to proceed in the opposite direction of the ramp for better control.
● equip forklifts with anti tipping devices.
● do not let the forklift up and down the kerb to avoid accidents and impact on the machine itself or goods.
● equip forklifts with beacons (rotating lights), especially in refrigerated warehouses or very noisy warehouses, so as not to hear how the machine approaches, which may lead to accidents.
● place an anti-skid support on the chassis and a handle on the truck gantry.
● carefully adjust the height and level of forklift seats.
Forklift maintenance
● check the condition of the truck frequently when necessary, especially the brake, steering and lights. Use protocols or checklists to avoid forgetting any important elements.
● check the condition and pressure of the tire every day and replace it when the tread is poor.
The forklift must always be in perfect sanitary and maintenance conditions without leakage or any material that may cause discomfort, slip or fall of the driver.
Maintenance of warehouse and work area
● keep the goods properly to prevent them from falling, and mark them in different areas: special area for dangerous goods, cold storage area or perishable food, etc.
● keep the warehouse and all working spaces in general clean and tidy at all times, and most importantly, there are no obstacles that may lead to collision with forklifts.
● the floor must be flat and non slip to avoid falling and accidents.
● properly illuminate corridors and indoor areas.
● measures to avoid explosion or gas poisoning
● trucks used to transport hazardous materials must be explosion-proof and RD 144 / 2016 certified.
● install spark suppression system in the exhaust pipe of forklift with internal combustion engine.
● install explosion-proof exhaust pipe.
● thoroughly clean the working area of materials that may become a source of fire.
● properly ventilated working areas.
● store the forklift's lead-acid battery in a specific place and ensure all safety: fireproof materials, adequate ventilation, shower and eye wash in case of emergency, etc. This space is called the battery room.
Avoid dangerous situations
● do not drive recklessly.
● do not carry additional passengers in a single seat forklift.
● never use a forklift to pick up materials, repair or for any other reason. It is one of the most common causes of falls and sometimes has very serious consequences.
