Unfortunately, industrial accidents and injuries at construction sites are really common and occur more often than anyone would like. Based on statistics, a lot of these incidents happen because of inadequate or wholly absent protocols and safety training. A machine like a lift truck can be a very dangerous piece of machine if used incorrectly.
Proper maintenance is the initial step towards safety as with most types of machinery. You should make certain that the machinery is functioning at an optimum level before attempting to utilize it and you should never try to use something which doesn't seem to be functioning properly. Safety first!
In general, there are some relevant safety measures that are key to help utilizing warehouse and construction machines. To start with, the shovels, tines or other lifting components should never ever be utilized to transport people. This equipment is not an elevator or a moving work station. It is a heavy-duty piece of industrial machinery which should be respected at all times.
Before lifting any load, it is vital to make certain that the cargo is properly balanced and settled on your forks. Any unwieldy or poorly centered object has a possibility of falling off the blades and potentially causing injury to co-worker or passers-by. Also, whatever is being transported could easily end up damaged.
It is never acceptable to stand between the load, a wall or other surface and the forklift. The operator of the forklift might not be able to see exactly where you are from their position and could end up crushing your arm accidentally in between objects if you are not paying attention. It is never a good idea to be hanging around machinery which is in use.
Get to know the equipment's specific load bearing characteristics and follow the limits. Severe injury and damage can take place if you attempt to raise anything which is very heavy or too big. Moreover, take note of your load's speed and height while you are transporting it to make certain you are in the correct safety parameters.
Your chances of a workplace accident is greatly reduced if you could use your forklift in a safe manner. Injuries and product damage could be avoided easily so long as everybody takes the time to ensure they are following the safety guidelines set out by the manufacturer for that particular model.