Five Things You Should Know About Staying Safe When Forklift Training

Forklift trucks are used in a wide range of locations and situations every day and safety issues should be one of the top concerns for both managers and operators. If you’re involved in forklift training, what should you be considering to keep workers safe?

Research published by the Health & Safety Executive found that in 2010/11 injuries actually increased by 4%, following a decline over the previous two years. There are now around 8,000 accidents a year. However, many of these could be eliminated with the provision of adequate training and regular vehicle maintenance.

Keep Training

The safety of forklift users is broadly covered by Section 2 (2)(c) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, which states that all operators need to receive adequate training when they commence a job or have relevant experience. All training should be carried out by an accredited professional.

When new forklift operators start work they are required to complete a basic training course. However, it’s important to provide employees with regular refresher courses, especially if they use the machinery only occasionally or new legislation has been introduced.

The provision of a good-quality training programme will help to reduce some of the accidents caused when employees are at fault. There are a range of courses across the country for forklift training Bristol and London are just a couple of the locations.

Regular Maintenance

A truck that is maintained on a regular basis is much less likely to develop a fault that causes an accident. At the start of each shift, the vehicle should be checked for any damage or faults. It’s essential that any defects are repaired quickly.

In addition, the truck should have a thorough service at least once every 12 months. However, the regularity of this will depend on the manufacturer’s requirements and when and where the forklift is used.

Authorised Personnel

It’s essential that only trained and authorised employees are permitted to operate a forklift at any time. You should ensure that all keys are kept in a secure place when not in use and that they’re returned promptly at the end of a shift.

Protective Clothing

Anyone driving a forklift truck has to wear a seat belt and the correct protective attire. This should include a fluorescent jacket, appropriate footwear and a hard hat. There should also be systems on the vehicle, for example flashing lights and a warning sound, to alert pedestrians when the truck is approaching.

Safe Working Environment

If you’re in charge of forklift trucks, you must pay attention to the areas in which they’re used. They need to be be kept clear and flat where possible to avoid any unnecessary accidents. Any roads, aisles or gangways they operate in have to be wide and tall enough to accommodate them. It’s also advisable to avoid tight corners, as these can be hazardous for drivers carrying heavy loads.