Workplace injuries and accidents on construction locations unfortunately occur more frequently than anyone would prefer. According to statistics, a huge majority of these mishaps happen as a result of not enough or wholly absent safety training and protocols. A machine such as a forklift can be a very dangerous type of equipment if incorrectly used.
Proper maintenance is the initial step towards safety like with nearly all types of machinery. You need to make sure that the equipment is functioning at an optimum level prior to trying to utilize it and you should never try to use something that doesn't seem to be functioning correctly. Safety is always first!
In general, there are several relevant safety measures that are key to help using warehouse and construction machines. To begin with, the tines, shovels 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 that should be always respected.
It is vital to ensure that whatever load you have is correctly balanced and settled before attempting to raise it. Any unwieldy or poorly centered thing has a possibility of falling off the forks and possibly causing injury to co-worker or passers-by. Additionally, whatever is being transported can end up broken easily.
It is never acceptable to stand between a wall, the load or other surface and the forklift. From their position, the forklift operator may not be able to see exactly where you are and could end up crushing your arm accidentally in between things if you are not paying attention. It is not a good idea to be hanging around machines which is in use.
Get to know the machinery's specific load bearing characteristics and follow the limits. Extreme injury and damage can happen if you attempt to lift anything which is too big or very heavy. As well, take note of your cargo's speed and height while you are transporting it to make sure you are in the proper safety parameters.
Your chances of a workplace accident is really reduced if you could operate your forklift in a safe way. Injuries and product damage can be prevented easily as long as everybody takes the time to make sure that they are following the manufacturer's safety guidelines set out for that particular model.