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Forklift Safety - Tips for Basic Forklift Handling

Although the forklift is a tool that is used successfully by drivers in mechanical and industrial settings all over the world, just as with any other vehicle there are a few basic safety tips to keep in mind before operating any heavy machinery of this nature.

The basics of forklift safety are taught in training courses, which can be completed in person or online in a short amount of time. Some of the most basic accidents that could occur include forklifts overturning, which can pin either the driver or bystanders underneath the heavy machine.

Forklift Safety

In busier warehouses, there is also the danger that a worker could be run down or pinned in between two different machines, should the proper safety precautions not be followed. Because these accidents can in some cases be fatal, it’s vital to always follow the basic principles of forklift safety. Staying alert is a must when on the job.



Unless the driver is paying attention to his or her surroundings at all times, there is a possibility that bystanders will be caught in between machines or have a heavy load fall on top of heads. Novice lift trucks drivers will want to take special care to learn the basics of handling this machine, but even experienced workers will still need to always be vigilant.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, is an organization that is dedicated to helping train people about lift truck safety and prevent these types of accidents. According to their statistics, forklift accidents can cause 85 deaths per year on average, along with thousands of injuries ranging from minor to severe. Therefore, in addition to paying attention while driving, there are a few other basic tips to keep in mind.

When driving a forklift, one thing to pay special attention to is the direction that the machine is heading. Sudden turns can lead to accidents, and always put your turn signals on. Forklifts should be checked every day for any mechanical problems, particularly with older models.

Each forklift is equipped with a mechanical claw that helps lift and move heavy boxes or other loads. When operating this part of the forklift, a good lift truck safety tip is to make sure that the vehicle is not in motion. Some warehouses will have specific speeds that you must adhere to. Another number to pay attention to is the load limit. If you try to lift more than what the forklift is capable of, this could then be dropped and lead to accidents.

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