Forklift Accident: The Problem and Cure

Human negligence ranks as the number one cause of forklift accidents. This explains why all operators need to be certified and all personnel in the working area properly trained in order to stay as safe as possible. There are several procedures and preventive measures to go by to maintain efficiency while reducing the risks.

Forklift Accident Statistics

According to OSHA or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, one person dies every three days in the United States due to forklift accident. Over 95,000 individuals are injured in addition. Furthermore, an estimated 70% of all forklift accidents can be avoided with proper safety training and precautionary measures. It is usually human error or negligence that causes untoward circumstances.

Majority of accidents at 26% results from the forklift tipping over. 18% involves pedestrians being hit by the forklift. 14% comprises loads falling off the forklift and another 14% comprises people being elevated via the forklift. 7% is due to hazardous workplace design or accidental driving off loading docks. Another 7% is caused by faulty materials or poor maintenance of the forklift. Loss of operator control of the forklift makes up for 3% of all accidents and improper use makes up for the final 3%.

Hazardous Contributive Factors

The forklift needs to be maintained regularly to ensure reliable and safe functioning. Poor maintenance can result to brake malfunction, hard steering, transmission problems and hydraulic problems. The protection system has to be checked time and again so that the operator as well as other personnel in the workplace remains safe. The workplace design needs to have enough space for safe transport even in very congested single track areas or inside trailers. Pallets need to be stacked properly and lifts should stay within allowable weight limits.

What to Remember

Operators who lack training and personnel who do not follow safety guidelines are more likely to encounter forklift accidents. The forklift and load should be considered as a single unit taking into account proper maneuvering techniques to safely lift and transport. The production line needs to have constant communication as well and stay within the boundaries of safety regardless of productivity demands. Horseplay is prohibited at all times.

The Importance of Training

Since there are a variety of equipment and mechanisms that involves the forklift, personnel should be trained properly and familiarize proper use of the machines first before working. All workers need to be oriented with new models first especially those involving high-tech gadgets and sophisticated control systems. Employers need to verify the certification of all appointed operators to maintain the safety of all persons in the workplace. Rules and guidelines need to be remembered by all individuals as part of their training and work ethics.

Prevention is Better than Cure

Workers need to be reminded to use seatbelts at all times to avoid a forklift accident. Faulty or damaged units need to be reported immediately for repair. Workers should not jump out in the case of an overturn but simply hold on and stay inside the cab. Know the dangers of overloading.