Are you staffed with the responsibility of operating a forklift on a daily basis? Is this something you enjoy, as long as you are able to remain safe?
If you have been operating a forklift for many years, you may assume that you know everything. Unfortunately, it only takes one mistake to cause a serious accident.
There are many things you can do to avoid trouble when operating a forklift. It would be in your best interest to become familiar with the most common causes of accidents, as this can improve your safety in the future.
Here are some things to consider:
- Don’t operate a forklift unless you receive the proper training
- Don’t speed or operate a forklift in a reckless manner, such as by texting or talking on a cell phone when the vehicle is in use
- Never operate a forklift with an elevated load, as it increases the chance of an accident
- Avoid making improper turns, such as turning too fast with a heavy load on board
- Follow all warnings and markings at all times
- Never give a person a ride on the forklift load, no matter how fun this may seem
- Talk to your employer about workplace design if you realize that something is wrong with the layout or setup of the space
These are just a few of the many things you can do to remain safe when operating a forklift.
If you are involved in any type of forklift accident, either as a driver or another worker, you need to stay where you are and receive first aid. Depending on the extent of the injury, you may want to call an ambulance for help.
In the event that your injury keeps you away from work or leads to financial damage, it may be time to pursue a third-party claim. While it’s never easy to navigate a complex accident claim, there are defined steps you can take to improve your chances of success.
