Forklifts are useful material handling equipment used in large warehouses and storage facilities to move loads from one place to another. These machines introduce ease in material handling and also improves productivity and efficiency. Despite offering numerous advantages, accidents caused due to forklifts are still a major concern. Forklifts are not inherently dangerous, but operators need to adhere to various safety tips to use them cautiously and prevent site accidents. Here is a complete guide on forklift safety for the operators.
1. Get certified
An individual aspiring to become a forklift operator is required to go through a proper forklift training program to gather all the necessary information to drive a forklift efficiently. On completion of the training program, the individual is handed over a certificate that qualifies him as a certified forklift operator. Without this certificate, an operator is not qualified to drive a forklift as it is dangerous to let someone operate this machine without adequate knowledge.
2. Know forklift classes
Understanding technical knowledge about a forklift is the most important part of a forklift training program. Having information about forklift classes helps an operator to gauge which class of forklift is suitable for what kind of loads. Lack of this information can cause many accidents at the work-site resulting in load damage and severe injuries.
3. Put on proper work-wear
Forklift operators are required to wear proper clothing to eliminate the possibility of accidents. Hard shoes, high-visibility jackets, industrial helmets ensure operator’s safety from common accidents that may happen at the work-site.
4. Perform inspection routine daily
Before getting behind the wheels, it is of utmost importance to run an inspection routine daily to ensure the forklift is in good condition. Testing brakes, lights, horn, and steering wheel, examining tires and oil levels, checking for oil, radiator, and water leaks, ensuring forks are straight, and looking out for obstructions are some of the important things in routine forklift check. Failing to perform this can result in many hazards.
5. Ensure good visibility in all directions
Once an operator gets behind the wheels, it is crucial to ensure having 360-degree visibility. Operators must keep the load low to have better visibility of the path. In case the load is obstructing the view, an operator must operate the forklift in reverse to ensure the safety of the load and the pedestrians. Proper usage of lights and rear-view mirrors can be of great help in ensuring 360-degree visibility. Our OM Brand forklifts are designed in a way that visibility is ensured. The forklifts have sensors in addition to rear view mirrors for safe operations.
There is a lot that goes into ensuring a safe work-site while working with the forklift. Appointing a qualified forklift operator and keeping in mind these tips while operating a forklift can help you eliminate possibilities of hazards by many folds. It is the lack of knowledge about forklift operation that is dangerous and not the machine.
If you are looking for a leading material handling equipment manufacturer in India, visit our website to explore a wide range of forklifts and warehousing equipment. OM caters to warehousing facilities with the product portfolio of forklifts, stackers, reach trucks, pallet trucks, tow trucks and provides training, maintenance, and forklift spare parts.
