Unfortunately, industrial accidents and injuries at construction sites are extremely common and occur more frequently than anybody would prefer. Based on statistics, a huge majority of these mishaps happen as a result of wholly absent or inadequate protocols and safety training. A machine such as a forklift can be an extremely dangerous type of machine if improperly used.
With most kinds of equipment, correct maintenance is the first step towards maintenance. You must make sure that the machine is performing at an optimum level before trying to utilize it and you should never attempt to use anything which doesn't seem to be functioning correctly. Safety first!
There are some important safety tips that are relevant to construction and warehouse machines in general. For starters, the shovels, tines or other lifting parts should never ever be utilized to transport people. This specific equipment is not an elevator or a moving work station. It is a heavy-duty piece of industrial machinery which should be respected always.
Before lifting any load, it is vital to make certain that the cargo is properly balanced and settled on your forks. Any poorly or unwieldy centered object has a possibility of falling off the blades and can injure passers-by or co-workers. Furthermore, whatever is being transported could end up broken easily.
It is never acceptable to stand between a wall, the load or other surface and the forklift. The operator of the forklift may not be able to see exactly where you are from their position and could end up crushing your arm accidentally in between items if you are not paying attention. It is not a wise idea to be hanging around equipment which is being used.
Follow and know the load restrictions of a particular machines load bearing characteristics. Severe injury and damage could take place if you try to raise anything that is very large or very heavy. Additionally, take note of your cargo's height and speed while you are moving it to make certain you are within the correct safety parameters.
Operating a forklift in a safe way could greatly reduce your chance of mishaps in the workplace. Product damage and injuries can be avoided easily so long as everybody takes the time to make certain that they are following all the manufacturer's safety guidelines set out for that particular unit.