Drive Safely or Don't Drive at All: The Ultimate Guide to Forklift Safety

Forklifts are essential tools in many industrial and warehouse environments, but they are also one of the leading causes of accidents and injuries in the workplace. That's why forklift safety is crucial for the well-being of operators, as well as for the safety of those working around them. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of forklift safety, the reasons why it matters, and the steps that should be taken to ensure the safe operation of these powerful machines. Whether you're an experienced forklift operator or new to the industry, this guide will provide you with the information you need to stay safe on the job. The tips and best practices outlined in this post will not only help you avoid accidents but will also improve your efficiency and productivity, making your work environment a safer and more pleasant place.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, there are approximately 123 fatalities and 441,000 serious injuries each year caused by forklift accidents in the United Kingdom alone. The majority of these accidents are caused by operator error, such as a lack of proper training or failure to follow safety guidelines.

Some other statistics show that:

• More than one-third of fatal forklift accidents involve a pedestrian being struck by the lift truck
• The leading cause of forklift accidents is operator error, followed by a lack of proper maintenance and inadequate facility design
• More than 60% of forklift accidents happen in warehouses
• The most common types of injuries caused by forklift accidents are crush injuries, fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.

These statistics highlight the importance of proper training and adherence to safety guidelines when operating a forklift. Proper training can help prevent accidents and injuries, and ensure that forklift operators are able to operate their vehicles safely and efficiently. By following safety protocols and guidelines, companies can protect their employees, reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, and improve their bottom line.

1. In a warehouse in Ballymena, a forklift operator was moving pallets of heavy boxes when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a wall, causing the boxes to fall on top of him. The operator was severely injured and had to be hospitalized. This accident could have been prevented if the operator had received proper training on how to safely manoeuvre the forklift and properly stack the boxes.

2. At a construction site in Belfast, a forklift operator was transporting a heavy load of building materials when the load shifted and the forklift tipped over. The operator was thrown from the vehicle and suffered serious injuries. This accident could have been prevented if the operator had received training on how to properly secure and balance loads, and had been provided with a forklift that was equipped with safety features such as load indicators and stability control.

3. An employee of a manufacturing company was walking through the warehouse when he was struck by a forklift being operated by an untrained employee. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries and had to be hospitalized. This accident could have been prevented if the operator had received proper training on how to safely operate the forklift in the presence of pedestrians and if the company had implemented a policy prohibiting untrained individuals from operating forklifts.

4. An operator of a forklift was driving through a narrow aisle in a warehouse when the load he was carrying hit a hanging light fixture, causing it to fall and hit a nearby worker. The worker suffered head injuries and had to be hospitalized. This accident could have been prevented if the operator had received proper training on how to navigate through tight spaces and if the company had ensured that the warehouse was properly lit and free of hazards.

These examples show how important it is to have proper training and safety measures in place to prevent forklift accidents. Proper training and adherence to safety guidelines can help protect employees and prevent serious injuries and fatalities. Here are some tips on best practices for safe forklift operation

1. Never exceed the load capacity of the forklift.
   
2. Always wear your seatbelt while operating a forklift
3. Keep the forklift's load low and centred to maintain stability.
4. Keep the aisles and work areas clear of debris and obstacles.
5. Always use the horn to alert others of your presence.
6. Never drive a forklift near the edge of a loading dock or elevated platform.
7. Never drive a forklift up to someone who is standing in front of a fixed object.
8. Never drive a forklift with the load elevated, unless you are in a designated loading area.
9. Never drive a forklift with the load tilted or unstable.
10. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage and maintenance.
11. Inspect the forklift before each use, checking brakes, steering, warning devices, and tires.
12. Always pay attention to your surroundings, be aware of other operators and pedestrians.
13. Use a designated walkway or path when crossing a busy warehouse or construction site.
14. Always slow down when approaching blind corners, intersections, or doorways.
15. Always follow company safety policies and procedures.
16. Always use proper hand signals when directing other lift truck operators.
17. Never drive a forklift under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
18. Always follow the rules of the road and obey traffic signals.
19. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating a forklift.
20. Never use a forklift in an area with low headroom or poor visibility.

By following these tips and best practices, forklift operators can ensure their own safety as well as the safety of those working around them. It's important to remember that safety should always be the top priority when operating a forklift and to always be aware of the risks and hazards associated with this type of equipment.

If you're interested in learning more about forklift safety and training, we encourage you to visit our website at https://safety1stforklifttraining.com/. Our team of experienced and qualified instructors offers comprehensive training programs that are tailored to meet the needs of your company and industry. We cover all aspects of forklift operation, including classroom instruction, pre-shift inspection, propane safety, and battery safety for electric lift trucks. Our training is designed to produce proficient and safe operators, and we strive to provide an atmosphere that is friendly and relaxed.

Don't wait until an accident happens, take proactive steps to ensure the safety of your employees and your facility. Visit our website to learn more about our training courses, and to schedule a training session for your company. Together, we can make your workplace a safer and more efficient environment for everyone. Thanks for reading!

 

Is Your Forklift Safety Ready for the Busy Christmas Period?

 

With Christmas just around the corner, experts are predicting a 2.2% rise in seasonal spending compared to last year, which could make it one of the busiest Christmas periods in the last 10 years.

While this is great news for our economy, and hopefully means we’ll all be enjoying a very merry Christmas, it’s essential that businesses, and especially suppliers and retailers, are prepared for the impending rush. One thing that absolutely cannot be overlooked is health and safety, and while some business owners may be concentrating on profit and keeping up with demand if you fall into this trap and neglect your health and safety policy, it could end up costing you much more.

Warehousing equipment, forklift trucks, pallet trucks and staff will be in great demand for the next few weeks, but by following our advice to keep your warehouse safe, you’ll be able to keep up with the Christmas rush and protect yourself against the risks and costs associated with accidents in the workplace.

Stock up on equipment

At this time of year, many materials handling providers will see an increase in hired equipment to help warehouses manage the increased demand. So book your hired forklifts early, with a trusted and certified supplier, to ensure you have everything you need to keep up with the work.

Prepare your staff

Invest in refresher courses for staff that have already been trained, but may not have had to use the equipment or operate machinery for a while. It may not be a legal requirement, but keeping your workers’ skills sharp could drastically reduce the potential downtime caused by accidents.

Prepare for the weather

Businesses can lose a lot of money at any time of year if delivery trucks can’t collect goods, staff can’t get to work, or workers can’t navigate your site safely – but with an increase in profit at stake, it’s especially important over Christmas.

It may be a matter of hiring attachments for your vehicles to move snow, or if you have a large outdoor yard you may have to invest in leasing a snow plough, but at the very least you will need plenty of grit and snow shovels.

Seasonal staff

We all know that increased pressure at work can lead to mistakes as staff cut corners and rush to get their work done, but this is particularly dangerous in warehousing environments as a mistake could lead to a serious accident.

Employing temporary staff to help out over the Christmas period is a great idea, and will help to ensure you are not expecting too much from your permanent staff to the point they may become frustrated, tired and overworked.

However, it is essential you only hire qualified staff or supply them with enough training to let them legally and safely operate machinery. Make sure they are supplied with the correct PPE and are informed of your specific health and safety policy.

Risk assessments

If you are particularly concerned about the increased level of risk in your work environment then carry out a review of your risk assessment. Take into account the increase in machinery, stock and staff, and implement safety precautions that will help to negate the new hazards.

Depending on what type of equipment you use, you may also need to arrange for servicing and maintenance before the Christmas rush, to ensure potential machine faults are identified and remedied before your staff get too busy.

These steps will not just keep your warehouse operating safely over Christmas, but will also help to maintain efficiency and productivity, so you can look forward to a successful Christmas!

The team at safety 1st forklift training offer a range of training courses, tailored to suit the needs of your business, so whether you’re looking for general health and safety courses, risk assessment training or forklift operator training – simply get in touch today.

10 Forklift Tips to Keep Your Workplace Safe

 

Forklifts are incredibly useful pieces of equipment, used throughout many industries to enhance productivity, speed up processes and protect the health and safety of employees. But they can also be extremely dangerous, with thousands of forklift accidents every year resulting in sometimes serious injuries, and usually caused by improper and unsafe operation or lack of training for the operatives.

Below are a few tips that will help you keep your workplace safe and ensure you get the most from your equipment and staff.

1. Provide Proper Training

This is not just a sensible choice, but a legal obligation. As an employer you must ensure that your team are given all the training they need to safely and legally operate a forklift and keep themselves, their workmates and visitors to your site safe and protected from harm.

 

2. Provide Safe Work Wear

Your operators should have access to personal protective clothing:

• A hard hat – a must for any construction environment, development or warehousing facility
• Safety shoes – can be the most simple way to avoid potentially disabling accidents
• Hi-Vis jackets – essential for everyone present on site – not just the operatives
• Tight-fitting clothing – loose clothing, sleeves or trouser legs, can easily become trapped in machinery

 

3. Regular Safety Inspections
During their training, your employees will be taught the importance of pre-use safety checks, and how to properly examine the forklift before it is used – every time. Some of the things to inspect before each use include:

• Brakes
• Steering
• Controls
• Warning devices
• Mast
• Tyres

Any problems or faults uncovered, or any signs of excessive wear and tear that become evident should mean the vehicle is immediately taken out of action until they are resolved. All repairs should be carried out by a fully trained and qualified mechanic or engineer.

All inspections, results and actions should be recorded to evidence your commitment to health and safety.

4. Starting a forklift

As with any vehicle, there are certain things to check before you start the engine that you will not be able to adjust once the vehicle is in motion:

• Mirrors should be positioned to give the individual operator a clear view of everything around them
• The seat and controls will need adjusting for each operative to ensure they are within easy and safe reach
• The operative should be properly and comfortably seated for the journey and have the seatbelt fastened

 

5. Be aware of your surroundings

You should always operate your forklift in line with any site rules, speed limits and safety guidelines, which in most places involve:

• Only driving on designated roads or paths
• Keeping below a 10-mile-per-hour speed limit
• Check signs for low ceilings or doorways, give ways, loading bays & exclusion zones
• Know where the edges of ramps, bays and docks are, so you can safely avoid them.

 

6. Avoiding Hazards
It’s important that you know the area you will be driving in well, as an unseen bump in the road can cause the vehicle to tip and result in injuries to yourself and others, as well as damage to the vehicle.

• Be aware of lumps, bumps, slippery ground and uneven surfaces
• Avoid any loose materials, objects or flooring
• Slow for corners and doorways, especially if your visibility is limited
• Use your horn to warn pedestrians of your approach
• Stay a safe distance from other operatives and vehicles
• Maintain a safe stopping distance at all times

 

7. Safe loading procedures

One of the biggest causes of forklift accidents is unsafe loads. Unevenly balanced, unsecured, too heavy or too high loads can cause vehicles to tip up, resulting in accidents that could have been avoided with proper care. The rules are simple:

• The load should be tilted slightly back, towards the vehicle
• The forks should sit low whilst the vehicle is moving
• Loads should be correctly stacked and spread across both forks
• Use pallets or skid to balance the load
• Check for any overhead obstacles before stacking upwards
• Use ropes, straps and bindings to properly secure loads
• Do not overload the forklift
• Do not push a load with the forks
• Never exceed the maximum capacity of your forklift or attachments
• Always check the load carefully before moving off

 

8. Maintain good visibility

Another contributing factor in many accidents is not being able to see the path ahead clearly – this not only represents a danger to the driver but any pedestrians who may not see the forklift approach. Maintaining a clear view of your journey and load is key to upholding safety.

• Position the load so you can see clearly where you are going keeping it as low as possible
• If necessary, operate the forklift in reverse
• Ensure you can see the load clearly, to check it remains secure
• If the weather is bad, and effective your ability to see clearly, stop driving
• If necessary, get a lookout to assist you and keep them in your sight at all times
• Operate the forklift in reverse when it improves visibility; except when moving up ramps.

 

 

9. Driving on Ramps

Forklift operatives should uphold good working practices at all times, especially when travelling on an on-ramp or incline with a loaded forklift. The rules are simple –

• If you’re travelling uphill, move in a forward direction
• If travelling downhill, move in a backward direction
• Always look in the direction of travel
• Use a lookout for additional safety if necessary
• Stay away from the edge of the ramp
• Do not travel on ramps with no railings
• Do not travel on inclines that exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Never turn, change direction or load on a ramp

 

10. At the end of the shift

Once the task is completed or the operative’s shift ends, the forklift should be returned to the designated area and parked safely in the authorised space.

Operatives should never change mid-shift, or in an unauthorised zone, without the new operative being given the time to check the vehicle and adjust the controls, seat and mirrors to suit them, in a safe and designated area.

If you need help or training let us know 

https://safety1stforklifttraining.com/

 

Why water a forklift battery?

The battery is one of the most expensive parts of a forklift truck and needs to be properly maintained to get full value from the truck. Forklift batteries can last from 5 – 10 years before they need replacing, but only when looked after.

What maintenance do forklift batteries require?

It varies between brands and models, but overnight charging, cooling periods, and regular use are the main factors. Watering the forklift battery is another task that preserves the lifespan of the battery and gets more use from the forklift.

Watering a forklift battery keeps the acid mix at the correct dilution and allows the battery to reach its rated power capacity and charge without overheating. Without watering, forklift batteries can burn out and run into problems.

Why water a forklift battery?

 

• Increase the battery lifespan
• Reduce the likelihood of premature failure
• Reduce operational downtime
• Prevent replacement battery costs
• Increase the operating period of forklifts
• Fewer energy and maintenance costs

When should you water a forklift battery?

You should water your forklift battery only when it has been completely charged and has had time to cool. When the battery has completed a charging cycle, the water levels are at their highest and you can top the water up without it over boiling.

How to water a forklift battery

There are manual and automated methods for watering. Whatever method you use to water your forklift battery, only water each cell until the top of the lead-acid plate is reached. These plates are usually visible a few cm below the cell cap.

Gravity feed system – With a large, suspended water tank, the operator fills the cells with a hose attachment, moving between cells until they are full. The operator manually gauges the level of water in each cell and may need to use a torch to see.

Powered hose – The operator manually fills each cell to the proper level using a hose. As with the gravity feed system, you need sight of the level of water in each cell.

Recommended:

Battery watering system – These hook your batteries up to a hose device that fixes each cell and properly fills them. It automatically shuts off the water when each cell is properly filled. These systems are easier to use and provide the most accuracy.

We hope this quick guide has provided you with the information you need. If you are struggling with forklift maintenance in Yorkshire, or think your forklifts could use a service, get in touch with our forklift experts on 028 9084 1444 or info@whall.co.uk

OUR TOP TIPS FOR FORKLIFT WAREHOUSE SAFETY

Safety at work should be taken seriously no matter what job you do, but when dealing with any machinery – such as forklifts – it’s especially important that safety is at the forefront of workers’ minds. While forklifts can no doubt help speed up and improve your operations, misuse or a lack of training can be a recipe for disaster.

Having a forklift safety system for your warehouse is essential. Keep reading for our top tips for maintaining forklift warehouse safety.

WAREHOUSE FORKLIFT SAFETY RULES

UNDERTAKE DAILY CHECKS

Have a forklift safety system in your warehouse by making sure you’re examining your machines regularly with routine inspections. Checking your machines at the start of each working day is a great habit to get into. During your examinations, it’s a good idea to have a checklist that you can tick off. Make sure that:

• Any lights are working.
• Breaks are working well.
• The tires are in good condition with no damage.
• The steering is working correctly.

WORK IN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT

Make sure your warehouse is free from any mess or clutter and that signage is clear and observable. Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common causes of work-related injuries in the UK, according to stats from the Health & Safety Executive. Ensure your lighting is correct and workers have a clear sight of their surroundings, spills are cleared up immediately, and everyone is aware of any potentially slippery surfaces.

Be aware that wet surfaces can be hazardous when driving forklifts, as stopping distances can be much longer, just like in a car.

WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING

Dressing right when using forklift trucks can go a long way towards maintaining proper safety.  PPE (personal protective equipment) protects workers from anything that could jeopardize their physical safety during the workday. PPE could include:

• Safety shoes like steel toecap boots.
• A helmet/hard hat to protect your head from sudden dangers or impacts.
• Eye protection like safety glasses or goggles.
• High-visibility clothing like a reflective jacket or vest.
• Safety gloves to protect your hands.

FORKLIFT DRIVER TRAINING

Probably the most important aspect of warehouse forklift safety is making sure drivers are properly trained and qualified. According to figures released by the HSE, 43 people are injured by forklifts every week, and there’s a fatality every 6 weeks.

Making sure that those operating forklifts are well-versed in how to do so safely and correctly plays a vital role in helping to prevent accidents. Casual training has serious downsides, so you should always make sure that you’re undergoing training with an experienced, accredited company that knows forklift safety rules like the backs of its hands.

At Moorgate, we understand the risks associated with forklifts. That’s why we’ve been offering forklift driver training courses in Leeds for over 30 years. From complete beginners to experienced drivers looking for refresher training (which should be undertaken every three years), our courses will make sure your business is complying with the latest industry regulations and standards – and staying as safe as possible.

We hope these tips for forklift safety in warehouses were helpful. If you’re looking for forklift driver training in Yorkshire, get in touch today for details. You can reach us on 07808883209 or brianford@safety1stforklifttraining.com.

Use simple 3-points-of-contact rule to prevent nasty falls

Use the simple 3-points-of-conta
ct rule to prevent nasty falls

Falls, slips and trips account for over a third of all UK workplace injuries, with forklift truck operators and warehouse staff ranking highly among them. In fact, every year falls from stationary and moving lift trucks seriously injure – or worse – approximately 40 workers in the UK.

Encourage your operators and those responsible for site safety to take care when mounting and dismounting lift trucks by following one simple rule: keep three points of contact.

It's a basic fundamental of forklift operator training that simply states: when getting on or off a truck, you should maintain three points of contact until you are either in your seat or standing firmly on the ground. This means one hand and two feet or two hands and one foot at all times, and it will go a long way towards helping limit the risk of injury.

The best practice for mounting and dismounting a forklift truck is as follows:

• Mount/dismount only when the truck is stationary
• Face the truck
• Use the handgrips and steps provided
• Look all around for hazards
• Get on and off the truck under control and one foot at a time
• Do not jump
• Take extra care in the rain, snow, or icy conditions

It’s best practice for good reason…

Not only does dismounting incorrectly put you at risk of a slip or fall, but the consequences could also be far more serious. Jumping to the ground is likely to put more distance between you and your lift truck and do so far quicker than simply stepping down, and could put you suddenly and unexpectedly in the path of another vehicle.

By facing the truck to mount and dismount and maintaining three points of contact, you can better protect yourself, should you end up in harm’s way. With at least one hand and foot on the truck at all times, you will be able to pull yourself into the cab of the truck and out of danger should a passing vehicle or obstruction come too close.

It might sound like common sense, but when you see the number of injuries caused by slips and falls then it’s worth reminding your forklift operators. It’s simple and easy to apply so if users bear it in mind when working, hopefully, we’ll start to see a reduction in falls from forklifts.

 

Electric lift trucks, an investment in the future

 The demand for electric lift trucks has significantly risen over the last few years. The constant increase in fuel prices, as well as the development of new environmental laws, have directed this product towards the spotlight. Last month, the UK Parliament declared an ‘environmental and climate change emergency’ with the purpose of reaching zero emissions by 2050 in England. In Scotland, the goal may be achieved even sooner, by 2045. Therefore, the necessity for companies to take further action regarding greenhouse emissions is required more than ever before.

Electric efficient machinery

Within the forklift sector, electric equipment offers a great alternative to internal combustion (IC) engines. However, the popularity of this type of forklift is not simply based on environmental matters. The efficiency of this lifting machinery has been widely proven. The high quality of lithium batteries, now available, makes them a very reliable product. Alongside it, they are generally silent and as easy to use as diesel or gas forklifts. Additionally, in the long term, the overall cost drops due to the low amount of energy required to recharge the battery. Hence, gathering all the attributes and advantages, the electric forklift seems to have all the future requirements of the industry.

Thus top forklift manufacturers, such as Doosan Industrial Vehicles, invested heavily in research and development to cover an increasing demand in the UK. As a result, Doosan provides a 7-series full AC range of trucks, which is one of the largest currently on the market. A significant feature is a side ‘lift-in-lift-out battery change system’. Through that, the battery-changing process is quicker and 100% safe, highly improving productivity.

A lift truck for each application

Each business has its own characteristics. Thus, they require a specific forklift that is tailored to their needs. Under those circumstances, electric forklifts are designed with different types of features to suit each application. So, when choosing this type of equipment, we must bear in mind the following:

Budget

First things first. No doubt when talking about an economic transaction, money is key. So, to start with, you need to decide whether you want to buy or hire a forklift. Electric lift trucks do involve a slightly higher upfront investment than the equivalent IC lift capacity. Nonetheless, they require fewer repair and maintenance costs. With that in mind, this type of forklift seems ideal for a long-term need when your budget is key.

Efficiency

Battery endurance has highly improved thanks to innovative technology. Charging or replacing a battery is faster nowadays. Besides, the alternating current (AC) has taken over and has replaced the direct current (DC). Therefore, AC motors can keep full power until the battery is to be changed which means less downtime and better efficiency.

Storage space

Another consideration is the storage space available within your workplace. When acquiring an electric lift truck, space for chargers is required as well as the forklift for recharging purposes. So, bear that in mind when thinking about your planning.

Load Capacity

So far, IC forklifts have been the traditional choice. Consequently, they were designed to carry heavier weight. However, technology evolves by leaps and bounds so higher-electric-capacity forklifts have begun to cover such demand.

Type of Activity

Due to its zero-emissions feature, an electric lift truck is the most suitable option for indoor and warehouse activities. Without harmful fumes for the operator or the workers nearby, they are safer and clean for everybody.

Finally, regardless of all this evidence, if you are unsure which type of forklift may suit your needs, do not hesitate to contact us to help you out with that process.