Workplace accidents and injuries on construction locations sadly happen more frequently than anyone would prefer. According to statistics, a huge majority of these incidents happen as a result of wholly absent or not enough safety training and protocols. A machine like a forklift can be a very dangerous piece of machine if incorrectly utilized.
With most types of equipment, correct maintenance is the initial step towards maintenance. You need to make sure that the equipment is performing at an optimum level before attempting to use it and you should never attempt to use anything that doesn't seem to be working correctly. Safety is always first!
There are several vital safety tips that are pertinent to warehouse and construction machinery in general. To begin with, the tines, shovels or other lifting parts should never ever be used to transport people. This particular machinery is not an elevator or a moving work station. It is a heavy-duty piece of industrial equipment that needs to be respected at all times.
It is important to make certain that whatever cargo you have is correctly settled and balanced before trying to raise it. Any unwieldy or poorly centered object has a possibility of falling off the tines and potentially causing injury to passers-by or co-workers. Furthermore, whatever is being transported could end up broken easily.
Never stand in between a load and a truck, wall or other surface. From their position, the operator of the forklift might not be able to see exactly where you are and can 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 machinery that is in use.
Get to know the equipment's specific load bearing characteristics and follow the restrictions. Severe injury and damage could take place if you try to raise anything that is very big or very heavy. As well, take note of the speed and the height of your cargo while you are moving it to make sure you are within the proper safety parameters.
Your chances of a workplace mishap is greatly lessened if you can use your forklift in a safe way. Product damage and injuries can be easily avoided so long as everybody takes the time to ensure they are following the safety guidelines set out by the manufacturer for that particular model.