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Sixteen Simple Tips for Operating a Forklift Safely

Below are some simple tips to follow to ensure safe operation of forklifts. Although these tips are simple and quite basic they are a good starting point to support workplace health and safety guidelines.

Operating newer forklifts with the latest safety features such as seat belt safety interlockers, overload lockout and speed controls can greatly increase operator and nearby pedestrian safety, while reducing product and capital equipment damage.

 

1. Operators must be qualified

• Operating forklifts should only be done by individuals who have been trained properly and contain a license to operate the equipment.

 

2. Appropriate clothing must be worn.

• It needs to be ensured that operators wear the appropriate safety work wear; usually consisting of a hard hat, safety shoes, safety glasses and hi-visibility jackets.
• The work wear must be reasonably fitted as any loose clothing can get caught on machinery.
• Don’t operate/hold any of the controls when your hands have grease on them; it may cause them to slide off and cause an accident.

 

3. Examine your equipment before using

• Operators should do a routine inspection of the equipment before operating their forklift. Some items you should check for any faults are brakes, steering, controls, warning devices, mast operation and tire condition.
• If there are any noted damages or problems management should be notified and the forklift should not be operated if it requires repairs.

 

4. Starting up the forklift

• For safety purposes it’s important for the operator to make use of the steps and hand grabs to seat themselves correctly in the forklift.
• Before starting the forklift it’s important to ensure all the equipment’s controls are in reach and the seat position and mirrors are adjusted to the operator’s needs.
• The operator should not start the forklift until they are correctly seated with their safety belt fastened and all parts of their body are safely inside the confines of the operator’s cabin or the forklift.

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5. Consider the surrounding environment

• While operating a forklift you must pay attention and follow any work site rules and guidelines.
• The operator must only drive the equipment in the machinery’s designated areas.
• Observe all signs, especially those on maximum permitted floor loadings and clearance heights.
• Be aware of the height of the load, mast and overhead guard of the forklift when entering or exiting buildings.
• Be careful when operating a forklift near the edge of a loading dock or ramp – the forklift can fall over the edge – keep a safe distance from the edge.
• Do not operate on bridge plates, unless they can support the weight of the forklift and load.

 

6. Operate at a safe speed

• Never proceed above the operational speed limits of the area you are in.
• Take corners and any turns slowly to minimize the risk of tipping.
• Make any changes in direction or any stops gradually and slowly.

 

7. Avoid Hazards

• Steer clear of any bumps or uneven ground surfaces along with slippery conditions.
• Steer clear of loose ground objects which could cause loss of control over the equipment or a load to move around.
• Use the horn when closing in on a corner or doorway or entrance and around people to alert pedestrians or other forklift operators of your whereabouts to avoid any unnecessary collision.
• Keep a safe distance from other trucks in case they move in an unpredictable manner.
• Make sure that you always have enough space to stop safely.

 

8. Ensure your load is stable and secure

• Check the loads carefully before moving them for stability and damage.
• It is important to ensure that the load is tilted back with the forks sitting low whilst transporting in order to increase the forklift stability.
• Check for any overhead objects before lifting or stacking loads.
• Do not lift or move loads that are not safe or stable.
• Make sure loads are correctly stacked and positioned across both forks.
• Stack the load on the pallet or skid safely and correctly.  Always consider the destination of a load before picking it up. A convenient position of a load from pick up may not be convenient for stacking.
• Use securing measures such as ropes, tapes, strapping or bindings if required.

 

9. Make sure you have clear visibility

• Operate the forklift in reverse when it improves visibility; except when moving up ramps.
• It is important to make sure you can see the racking clearly in which you are positioning your load.
• If visibility is poor do not continue driving; in some circumstances you may need a lookout helper to assist you.

10. Forklifts are for Carrying Loads only

• Forklift operators must not let others ride on the equipment unless another seat is fitted safely to the forklift for a second person.
• If a person has to be lifted, use only a securely attached work platform and cage and follow the appropriate operating instructions.

 

11. Keep Clear of the Mast

• Do not authorize anyone to stand or walk under the load or forklift machinery – The load can fall causing injury or death.
• Keep hands and feet clear of the cross members of the mast – Serious injury can be caused if the mast is lowered while your hand is on it.

 

12. Driving on Ramps

• When driving up a ramp move in a forward direction and when moving down a ramp in reverse, especially while carrying loads.
• Do not load or unload goods or turn while on a ramp.

 

13. Ensure the forklift is not Overloaded

• Do not use the tip of the forks as a lever to raise a heavy load.
• Do not push a load with the tip of the forks.
• Know the capacity of your forklift and any attachments being used and never exceed this capacity.  Take into account any load size issues that will affect the capacity rating.
• An overload can cause the rear tires to be raised off the ground and may cause the forklift to tip over.

 

14. Ensure the Load is evenly distributed

• Do not lift or move a load unless both forks are fully under the load.
• Do not lift a load with one fork. Use pallets and skids that can withstand the weight of the load.
• Do not use damaged, deformed or decayed pallets for holding loads.

 

15. Refueling

• A forklift should only be refueled at specially designated locations.
• Switch off the forklift while refueling.
• For IC engine forklifts, no open flame or sparks are permitted, and refueling should take place in a well-ventilated outside area.

 

16. When the Shift Ends

• After use ensure the forklift is parked in a designated or authorized area.
• Fully lower the forks to the floor and apply the park brake.
• Turn the forklift “off” and remove the key.
• For LP trucks shut off the propane tank valve
• For electric trucks unplug the battery from the forklift – plug the battery into it’s designated charger.
• Do not leave a forklift running while unattended.