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Safety Tips To Avert Forklift Accidents

Operating a forklift truck is not easy and its improper use can lead to fatal accidents and death as well. While going through forklift certification training in NJ, you will learn the following safety tips that will help to avert forklift accidents at a workplace.


Forklift Operators Proficiency

  • While operating a forklift, PPE should be worn all the times.

  • The course content and training program has to be specific to the kind of a forklift truck you are supposed to operate.

  • Only qualified and licensed individuals should be permitted to operate a forklift truck.


While Picking Up Loads

  • Be careful about a clear rear end while swinging the forklift.

  • Ensure no person is standing beneath or walking under the raised forks.

  • Avoid moving an overloaded forklift.

  • Prior to transporting, lower the fork at the right height.

  • Tilt the forks slightly backward to secure the balanced load and lift it slowly.

  • Make sure the forks are inserted completely and go from beginning to end of the pallet.

  • Make sure the heavy loads are stacked and balanced appropriately on the pallet.

  • Forks should be in the middle of the pallet to distribute the weight correctly.


While Unloading

  • Pull out the forks slowly after firmly placing the pallet/load, lower the forks and look for no obstacle at the rear end.

  • While the load is required to be placed at the rack, high up, position the forklift one or two feet in front of the frame, not really close to it, and then begin to raise the forks.


At the End of Work

  • A forklift should be parked in selected parking space only and on a leveled ground.

  • Parking brake should be applied.

  • The forks should be lowered, when parked.

  • Make sure the key should be removed.


While Inspecting & Maintenance

  • Prefer refueling only in an endorsed area and should be avoided inside the warehouse.

  • Hire a qualified mechanic for the maintenance of the forklift truck.

  • A forklift with reported faults should not be operated that could result in breakdown or even an untoward event.


For the Safety of Forklift Attachments

  • Loaded forklift truck should be moved at an extremely slow speed.

  • Avoid modifying the attachment and it should match the specific type of forklift.

  • The operator should have proper forklift certification training in NJ to operate a truck with a specific attachment.

  • Make sure you check the data plate and find out if the specific attachment is appropriate for your forklift truck.

  • Every turn should be made gently and slowly, especially with attachments fixed.

  • The load capacity of the truck is reduced with forklift attachments and has an effect on the center of gravity, resulting in an unstable forklift.

The first step to the safety of a forklift truck is getting a qualified and licensed operator. Applying security to all the aspects and facets of forklift operations should be prioritized. The aforementioned safety tips should be instilled in the minds of every person engaged.

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