If your business uses forklifts, it is vital that both you and your staff are familiar with all the safety rules and regulations associated with doing so. Having this training and knowledge is vital, as it can prevent serious accidents and injuries on the job. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Continue reading to review the top safety tips for operating a forklift, and then share this knowledge with your team to promote a higher level of workplace safety.<\/h3>\n\n\n\nIndiana Workers’ Compensation Lawyers 317-881-2700<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Forklift Operation<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Forklifts generally weigh more than two or\nthree tons, and achieve speeds of 10 mph. So it is no surprise that without\nproper knowledge and training, a person can put themselves and others in grave\ndanger. In fact, operating a forklift is such a serious responsibility, it\nrequires professional certification. To obtain a forklift permit, an individual\nshould attend a school, take courses, be trained under OSHA standards and pass\nexamines. Furthermore, these permits require renewal every 3 years, making the\nforklift operation learning curve an everlasting one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Forklift Safety Review<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
As the employer, it is important to take\nevery precaution necessary to prevent workplace accidents; and forklift safety\nreviews are on such precaution. Below are the top 5 forklift safety tips that\nyour staff should know and practice at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
#1 Forklift Operators Must Be Certified<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The most important rule is to make sure that only\ncertified staff members are operating the forklifts. Unqualified employees\nshould NEVER use a forklift under any circumstances. For those who are\ncertified but still lack experience, it is encouraged to have them supervised\nwhile operating forklifts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
#2 Always Do a Pre-Inspection Before Each Use<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Another important part of forklift safety is to ensure\nyour forklifts are in good condition before each use. Forklift operators should\nalways do a full inspection before turning on the machine, paying close attention\nto areas like the brakes, steering, controls, mast, tires, and warning\ndevices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
#3 Always Wear the Proper Protective Gear<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Forklift operators should never operate a forklift\nunless they are wearing the proper clothing and personal protection gear. This\nincludes a hard hat, goggles, safety shoes, and a light-reflective jacket.\nFurthermore, loose or poor-fitting clothing should never be worn while\noperating a forklift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
#4 Always Make Sure the Load is Secured<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Before using a forklift, operators should always\ndouble-check the cargo to ensure it is stable and secure. The cargo should be\nloaded properly and well-balanced. Improper cargo weight can cause forklifts to\ntip over or lose their load, putting others at serious risk of injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
#5 Maintain a Safe Speed at All Times<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Forklifts are not go-karts, and should not be driven\nas such. Operators should always maintain a safe speed, even when they are not\ncarrying a load. Although the average forklift doesn\u2019t exceed 10 mph, this\nspeed is more dangerous in a small space, making it easy to lose control of the\nmachine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Legal Help for Injured Employees<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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