Workplace accidents and injuries on construction locations unfortunately happen more frequently than anybody would prefer. According to statistics, a huge majority of these incidents happen because of inadequate or wholly absent protocols and safety training. A machinery such as a forklift can be an extremely dangerous piece of equipment if incorrectly used.
Proper maintenance is the first step towards safety like with nearly all kinds of equipment. You have to make certain that the machine is performing at an optimum level before trying to utilize it and you should never try to utilize anything which doesn't seem to be working correctly. Safety first!
There are several important safety tips that are relevant to warehouse and construction machines in general. To start with, the shovels, tines or other lifting parts must never ever be used to transport people. This machinery is not a moving work station or an elevator. It is a heavy-duty piece of industrial machine that must be respected at all times.
It is important to make certain that any load you have is properly balanced and settled prior to attempting to lift it. Any unwieldy or poorly centered object stands a good chance of falling off the tines and potentially injuring co-worker or passers-by. Moreover, whatever is being transported can easily end up broken.
It is never a good idea to stand between a wall, the load or other surface and the forklift. From their position, the operator of the forklift might not be able to see precisely where you are and could accidentally end up crushing your arm in between items if you are not paying attention. It is never a good idea to be hanging around equipment that is being used.
Know and follow the load restrictions of a specific equipment's load bearing characteristics. Severe injury and damage could happen if you attempt to raise something that is too big or very heavy. In addition, take note of the height and the speed of your load while you are moving it to make sure you are in the proper safety parameters.
Your chances of a workplace mishap is really lessened if you could operate your forklift in a safe manner. Injuries and product damage can be easily avoided so long as everybody takes the time to ensure they are following all the manufacturer's safety guidelines set out for that particular model.