FORKLIFT SAFETY TIPS
Safety Clothing
Training
Only operators who have completed the forklift operation skill training may operate the forklift. Wear designated work clothes and protective devices.
Pre-Operational Inspection
Inspect the forklift before starting work and inform the supervisor immediately if there is any problems. Contact service provider for repairs or modifications.
Fasten Seat Belt
Before operating the forklift fasten your seat belt.
Rule 1
Rule 2
Rule 3
Drive Within Speed Limit
Always operate the forklift at a speed that is appropriate for the environment. Observe the work site rules and operate the forklift safely.
Rule 4
Avoid Hazards
Rule 5
Do not drive over objects such as pieces of wood scattered on the ground. Doing so could cause the load to shift or the operator to lose control.
Rule 6
Unstable Loads
Stacke the load on the pallets and skid safely and properly. Use prevention measures such as ropes or binders is required. Do not carry unstable loads.
Rule 7
Don't Use Fork Tips
Do not use the tips of the fork as a lever to raise a heavy loads. Do not push a load with the tips of the fork, and do not use the tilt cylinder to pull a load.
Rule 8
Use Stable Pallets
Use pallets and skids that can withstand the weight of the load. Do not use damaged, deformed or decayed pallets and skids.
Rule 9
Use Helper in Narrow Spaces
Assign a helper at narrow places and make sure to predetermined signals to be used. The forklift operator must follow the signals given by the helper.
Rule 10
Look Left and Right and Sound Horn
If the view is obstructed, always stop once, sound horn, and look left and right before proceeding.
Rule 11
Keep Forks Low
Do not travel with the forks higher than a foot from the floor, and never travel or turn with the forks in an elevated positions or tilted forward.
Rule 12
Clear Visibility
If visibility is obstructed, a lookout helper may be required. Drive carefully when backing.
Rule 13
No Riders
A forklift is built for only one person. It is dangerous for any one to ride on the forks or anywhere else on the forklift.
Rule 14
No Hands on Mast
Do not place hands or feet on the cross members of the mast. Your hand will be serverd if the mast is lowered while your hand is on it.
Rule 15
Slow Down When Turning
Travel slowly when turning. Forklifts can tip over even at very slow speeds. The combination of speed and the sharpness of a turn can cause a tip over.
Rule 16
Special Care for Special Loads
Take special care when carrying a long or wide load. Turn and work slowly to prevent the load from shifting. Make sure the load is balanced.
To help ensure safe forklift operation, we have compiled 16 top tips.
This is for quick reference only. For detailed information regarding forklift safety and onsite support and training to ensure compliance with evolving health and safety regulations, contact your forklift service partner.
