Common Forklift Accidents and How to avoid them

Forklift accidents do happen – whether it’s due to negligence or unexplained circumstances. As a warehouse owner, there are a few things you can do to minimize these accidents from happening. For instance, you can order forklift lights to replace the damaged ones, or you can train your operators and make sure they are up-to-date with the latest requirements.

A forklift, also referred to as a fork truck or lift truck, is a powered industrial truck used to lift and move goods over short distances. It’s commonly used in a warehouse setting to load and unload goods from train cars or transport trailers. But when incorrectly operated, this equipment can be hazardous, causing vast property damage and also severe injuries to operators and workers.

Sometimes, even the newest, safest, and well-maintained forklifts can still cause accidents and workplace injuries. The same can also happen when the machine is operated by a well-trained, experienced, and conscientious worker. However, accidents are more prevalent in cases where the forklift is not properly maintained and/or when an inexperienced or untrained operator drives it. That’s why it’s essential to run regular checks and ensure that the forklift is functioning optimally and that its lights are fully functional. If not, you should order forklift lights for replacement. Again, it’s essential to train your operators and workers regarding safety around forklifts. With that in mind, let’s now look at some common forklift accidents and how to avoid them:

Poorly trained operators

Operators are responsible for driving the forklift. They are in charge of loading and offloading products and moving them around the warehouse. When these operators are not well-trained or qualified to run these machines, they will likely cause accidents that will lead to property damage and workplace injuries. That’s why it is critical to ensure that the operators understand how forklifts work and the proper protocol for carrying loads.

To solve this problem, ensure you hire experienced and certified operators. You can also train them regularly, so they are up-to-par with company requirements. Routine checks also help you know their competency levels and whether they are still fit to operate the forklift. Again, operators should be trained to check loads before lifting them to double-check their dimensions and stability for safe transport.

Reckless driving

Poorly trained operators are also more likely to drive recklessly – but this point isn’t limited to them alone because even some well-trained operators can drive irresponsibly. This is especially true because some forklift drivers become too comfortable and assume they know everything. Although speeding gets the work done faster, it increases the chances of accidents. OSHA recommends 5 miles per hour speed.

To solve this issue, educate the operators about the recommended speeds. Take it a step further and posy speed limit signs throughout the warehouse.

Poor forklift maintenance

Forklifts, like any machine, require regular maintenance. On top of that, operators are advised to check forklifts before any job – looking at first items that can be tracked without the engine running. Areas of focus include horn, tires, seat belts, backup alarms, fluid levels, and lights.

To solve this problem, you want to fix any visible issue before allowing the forklift to go back to operations.

Forklift overturn

It is not uncommon for forklifts to tip and overturns. Forklifts turn with the rear wheels, which makes the rear end to swing outward. This increases the chances of overturning. Besides, forklifts are designed on three-point suspension systems, so it derives support from both ends of the front axle as well as the middle of the rear axle. According to the National Security Council, this creates a “stability triangle” that operators need to stay within when the truck is moving. But factors like heavy, raised, wide or unstable loads; navigating corners too quickly, stopping or starting quickly; and rough terrain can cause the truck to overturn, causing property damage and personal injury.

To solve these problems, ensure that your operators drive slowly on a slippery surface, keep loads low to the ground during operation and that the load is well-secured and stable on the forks before the operation. Operators should also drive slowly when approaching turns and horns whenever they encounter people.

Insufficient warnings and markings

Although forklift lights are an excellent way to indicate which areas are off-limit, it is still a good idea to mark zones. When the area is insufficiently marked with warning signs, some people will carry out their duties unconcerned about the glaring danger.

To solve this issue, you should add floor signs and tape to mark forklift zones. This way, employees and visitors will get enough warning signs and keep off these areas.

 Conclusion 

There are approximately 62,000 non-serious and 35,000 serious injuries involving forklifts annually, according to OSHA. That’s why you shouldn’t assume or postpone any concerns that may end up causing property damage or workplace injuries.