Anyone employed in an industry that frequently utilizes forklifts is likely acquainted with the importance of safety. In an environment filled with stacked boxes, crates, and pallets, forklifts are essential but can pose unique threats to both operators and nearby personnel.
Forklift Safety Training: A Key Step in Prevention
As a supervisor, you should ensure that every forklift operator completes the necessary authorization process every three years, including mandatory training. It’s also crucial to educate your entire staff on proper work environment practices and heavy machinery awareness. This ongoing training is critical for ensuring safety across the board.
Essential Forklift Accessories for a Safe Work Environment
To keep your inventory, workers, and operators safe, you must invest in the right forklift safety accessories. These accessories not only extend the service life of your equipment but also contribute to a healthier and safer work environment, boosting your safety record—something OSHA will certainly appreciate.
Forklift Safety Accessories for Every Operation
The safety accessories you choose depend on your day-to-day operational needs, but the following items suit most applications.
Daily Safety Checklists: A Vital First Step
Forklifts are built with safety in mind, but operators must follow safety protocols for maximum protection. OSHA requires daily safety checks before use or after each shift, especially for forklifts assigned to round-the-clock use. Issues found during these checks—such as fluid levels, tire condition, or faulty finger guards—must be reported and addressed immediately.
Decals: A Simple Reminder for Safety
Install safety decals on every forklift to remind operators to follow safety rules. These decals can feature warnings like “no speeding,” “wear earpieces,” “no smoking,” and “no cell phone use” during shifts.
Back-Up Alarms, Strobe Lights, Blue Lights, and Horns
- Back-Up Alarms: Warn employees when a forklift is reversing, helping prevent accidents.
- Strobe Lights: Required by OSHA for dimly lit environments to increase visibility.
- Blue Lights: Projected onto the floor ahead of the forklift to warn others of its approach.
- Forklift Horns: Essential for alerting pedestrians and other workers to the proximity of the forklift.
Seats with Hip Guards and Hip Restraints: Ensuring Comfort and Safety
Forklift operation should always be comfortable and secure. Ergonomically designed seats with hip guards or hip restraints can improve safety and comfort during operation.
Orange Seat Belts with Quick Disconnect Features
Orange seat belts are a great safety feature that helps ensure accountability. Their bright color makes it easier for safety managers to monitor seat belt use and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Fire Extinguishers: Essential for Emergency Situations
OSHA mandates the placement of fire extinguishers in work areas. Equip forklifts with fire extinguishers as a proactive safety measure to respond to emergencies quickly.
Safety Harnesses for Order Pickers: Preventing Falls
When using order pickers, operators should wear safety harnesses and secure the handrails to prevent falls. This is crucial for maintaining safety when working at height.
PPE and Safety Vests: Enhancing Visibility and Protection
Before operating forklifts, ensure that your workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as protective eyewear, steel-toed boots, gloves, and high-visibility safety vests. These vests are essential for increasing visibility, even in low-light conditions.
Back-Up Cameras: Aiding Safe Reversing
Back-up cameras improve the safety of reversing forklifts. Modern systems even allow for visibility of the forks, helping operators navigate more safely and prevent accidents.
Forklift Safety Training: Not Just an Accessory, But a Necessity
While the physical accessories are important, forklift safety training is just as critical. Your operators must undergo comprehensive, OSHA-compliant training, which includes hands-on practice, classroom education, and evaluations. Completing the program successfully results in receiving OSHA-certified training cards and other essential certifications.
