Sadly, industrial accidents and injuries at construction locations are very common and happen more often than anybody would prefer. According to statistics, a huge majority of these incidents happen as a result of not enough or wholly absent protocols and safety training. An equipment such as a lift truck can be a really dangerous piece of machinery if utilized improperly.
With most types of machinery, correct maintenance is the initial step towards maintenance. You must make certain that the equipment is working at an optimum level before trying to use it and you must never try to utilize anything which doesn't seem to be functioning properly. Safety first!
In general, there are several relevant safety measures that are key to help utilizing construction and warehouse equipments. For starters, the shovels, tines or other lifting parts should never ever be used to transport individuals. This particular machine is not an elevator or a moving work station. It is a heavy-duty piece of industrial machinery which should be respected always.
It is important to ensure that any cargo you have is correctly balanced and settled before trying to lift it. Any poorly or unwieldy centered thing has a possibility of falling off the forks and could injure co-worker or passers-by. As well, whatever is being transported can easily end up broken.
Never stand in between a truck and a load, wall or other surface. The forklift operator might not be able to see exactly where you are from their position and can accidentally end up crushing your arm in between things if you are not paying attention. It is not a wise idea to be hanging around equipment that is being utilized.
Know and follow the load limits of a specific machines load bearing characteristics. Severe injury and damage could happen if you attempt to lift something that is very big or very heavy. What's more, take note of the speed and the height of your cargo while you are transporting it to make sure you are within the correct safety parameters.
Your chances of a workplace accident is greatly reduced if you can use your forklift in a safe way. Product damage and injuries can be prevented easily so long as everyone takes the time to make certain that they are following all the safety guidelines set out by the manufacturer for that specific model.