A top priority for anyone managing forklift operations must be to uphold safety. But what does this look likeday-to-day? Busy sites mean there is a lot to oversee, and it can be diffcult to know where to begin –particularly if you haven’t come from a background as a forklift operator. It’s vital that managers can spotbad practice and rectify it before it leads to an accident.
Here are some of the most common examples to watch out for:
Poor Observations
One of the main causes of serious workplace accidents and fatalities is being hit by a moving vehicle. Checkthat operators carry out their all-round observations properly, every time, before they move their truck orthe load, to ensure that they are aware of pedestrians or obstructions.
Unsafe Load Transportation
Insecure loads, uneven weight distribution and overloading are all examples of so-called ‘shortcuts’ that canlead to lost loads and tip overs, with serious consequences. As well as watching out for these, managersshould ensure that operators complete one maneuver at a time while carrying a load (i.e. turn, then lift; notturn and lift).
Inadequate Pedestrian Segregation
Pedestrians and forklifts must always remain a safe distance apart, especially in areas where they cannot bephysically separated. Whether colleagues or visiting drivers, pedestrians should not be permitted to help with loading/unloading and should never try to steady a load. Putting robust, reinforced Safe Systems of Work inplace will help to maintain safe working distances. Communicate these systems to everyone who may need toaccess an area where forklifts operate, however rarely this may be. This includes staff, contractors, visitorsand delivery drivers.
Poor Visibility
When operating a truck High loads can obscure the operators’ view of their surroundings, increasing the riskof them colliding with other vehicles, pedestrians or racking. Make sure that operators are traveling with aclear view, so that they can stay alert to any surrounding risks. If their view is obscured by the load and theycannot travel in reverse, then they should use a banksman to guide them.
Not Wearing Seatbelts
In the UK, the HSE is clear in its guidance: “Where restraining systems are fitted, they should be used.” Forklift operators may prefer to not wear seatbelts but the fact is they significantly reduce the consequences of anaccident. If the truck was to become unstable and tip over, a seatbelt stops the operator from being thrownfrom the cab or trying to escape, which can lead to them being trapped under the truck. Adding seatbelts tocompany policies makes their use mandatory on site and managers should reinforce this through regularmonitoring, refresher training, on-site signage and the like.
Misusing Equipment or using the Wrong Equipment
Managers should look out for cases where operators are using unsuitable equipment; for example, liftingcolleagues using makeshift cages, rather than purpose-built work platform attachments or MEWPs. Alsodangerous is using the right equipment but in ways it was not designed to be used, i.e. using lift trucks to push loads, rather than lift them. Ensure that operators have access to the correct equipment for the task and are properly trained to use it, to protect themselves and their colleagues.
Speeding
Tight deadlines and high demand can influence some operators to compromise on safety in an attempt to savetime. But rushing comes at a high cost when it increases the risk of tip overs, collisions or lost loads.Check that operators are aware of speed limits on site and that they understand the need to stick to them atall times, regardless of any operational pressures.
Dismounting Incorrectly
Forklift operators can become complacent during mounting/dismounting, simply due to the frequency that this isdone every day, and may be tempted to jump from the cab. But this increases the risk of slips and falls, andalso adds additional distance between them and their cab, potentially putting them into the path of anothervehicle. Take a look at the three points of contact rule for the safest way to enter/exit a lift truck.
These are just a few examples of the risks which your managers must target to help protect your team andyour business. By regularly monitoring operations and making time for proper supervision, those overseeingforklift use can guard against unsafe practice, proactively rectifying any bad habits day-to-day.
*as written by Stuart Taylor. Stuart Taylor is Managing Director of Mentor FLT Training Limited, the UK’s leading provider of training and associated services for all types ofmaterials handling equipment and workplace transport.
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