Forklifts, also known as powered industrial trucks, are used in a number of work settings to move materials. Forklifts are dangerous pieces of equipment and serious injuries or death can result from them. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 20,000 workers are injured every year in forklift accidents and at least 100 workers are killed (42% of the fatalities are caused by rollovers).
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers the following precautions if you operate or work near forklifts.
Operating
- Do not operate a forklift unless you have been trained and licensed in proper usage
- Use seat belts whenever available
- Report any damage or problems that occur to a forklift during your shift so they can be addressed before the next worker drives the forklift
Rollovers
- Do not jump from an overturning, sit-down style of forklift. Stay with the truck and hold on firmly trying to lean in the opposite direction of the overturn
- Exit from a stand-up type forklift with rear-entry access by stepping backward if a lateral tip over should occur
- Use extreme caution on grades or ramps
- On grades, tilt the load back and elevate the fork only as far as needed to clear the surface of the road
Travel Safety
- Do not raise or lower the forks when moving
- Do not handle loads that are heavier than the weight capacity listed on the forklift
- Operate only at a speed that will permit the forklift to stopped safely
- Slow down and sound the horn at cross aisles and locations where vision is obstructed
- Always look toward the travel path and keep a clear view of it
Passengers
- Do not allow passengers to ride on forklift trucks unless a seat is provided
- When dismounting from a forklift, set the parking brake, lower the forks or lifting carriage, and neutralize all controls
- Do not drive up to anyone standing in front of a bench or other fixed object
- Never use a forklift to elevate workers who are standing on the forks
- Elevate a worker on a platform only when the vehicle is directly below the work area
- Whenever a truck is used to elevate personnel, be sure to secure the elevating platform to the lifting carriage or forks of the forklift
- Use a restraining device such as rails, chains, or a body belt with a lanyard or deceleration device for worker(s) on the platform
- Never drive to another location with the work platform elevated
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
We have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
