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Forklift operators, like school kids, may find themselves returning back to “school” this September. But they won’t be studying data management or biology, they’ll be delving into a topic central to their day-to-day operations – forklift training. This training is essential for safely operating forklifts. Used across multiple industries with diverse risks, forklift operator training isn’t a one-time event, but an ongoing process that evolves with new safety protocols. Each year, numerous injuries stem from forklift accidents with 20 percent attributed to inadequate training. In today’s blog, we’ll explore the benefits of continuous training, which range from improving forklift safety and increasing employee productivity to optimizing operational efficiency.

Common Causes of Forklift Accidents 

When operated without proper knowledge and skill, forklifts can cause serious accidents and injuries. Without adequate training, both operators and those around the lift truck are at great risk. Here are the most common causes of forklift accidents:

Forklift Operators Aren’t Adequately Trained 

Forklifts feature numerous moving parts that operators must thoroughly understand before confidently using the machine. Additionally, every workplace presents unique obstacles and ground conditions that operators need to navigate. Forklift training evaluates a driver’s behaviour, vision and reflexes through written and practical assessments to ensure they can effectively manage the lift truck in diverse scenarios. 

Careless Driving 

Over time, experienced forklift operators may become overly confident in their abilities and start taking risks. But this type of behaviour is never acceptable. Driving forklifts too fast and disregarding safety standards can be extremely hazardous. Operators must remember that forklifts are designed to lift and transport heavy materials, not race fellow co-workers. Posted speed limits must be adhered to and all guidelines should be followed, including both those recommended by the forklift manufacturer and the employer. Ongoing forklift operator training plays a crucial role in reinforcing safety protocols, keeping the safe and proper operation of forklifts at the forefront of operators’ minds. 

Damaged or Run-Down Equipment 

Inadequate maintenance schedules or the use of incorrect parts and attachments can lead to accidents and injuries. Operators must inspect for signs of mechanical issues and ensure that attachments and accessories are securely fastened before operating the forklift. Ongoing forklift training emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance schedules and proper repair procedures, effectively reducing this frequency cause of forklift accidents. 

Elevated Loads 

Driving with elevated loads is risky business. Not only does it impair visibility, but any load above the centre of gravity can also destabilize the forklift and lead to tipping. To prevent this common forklift accident, it’s advisable to drive with loads positioned close to the ground, ideally titled back 4 to 6 inches.

Poorly Marked Forklift Zones 

Employees working near forklifts are also at risk. Using highly visible reflective tape and floor signs to mark forklift zones can prevent accidents where forklifts and foot traffic intersect. These warning signs and floor markings alert employees when they’re entering a forklift zone and indicate the correct path for forklift operators to follow.

What is Forklift Training? 

In Canada, operators are not required to have a forklift license but must be certified. The training program they choose should meet or exceed the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) requirements. Following this standard, operators commit to understanding the key elements of safe forklift operation. The primary goal of on-site forklift training is to provide thorough knowledge on how to operate a forklift safely. Here are some specifics that forklift operators can expect to learn during training:

• Forklifts 101 - Basic Operations. During on-site forklift training, the instructor will explain and demonstrate the use of each forklift component, control and basic operation. To ensure understanding, trainees will get the chance to operate the controls themselves and ask any questions they may have.
• When Things Go Wrong - How to Identify Malfunctions. An essential part of training is knowing how to handle forklift malfunctions. Through ongoing training, operators will learn how to address a wide range of issues and minimize accident risks if a forklift malfunctions.
• The Secret to Remaining Steady - How to Maintain Balance. Forklift tip-overs are a serious concern and more common than many realize. To prevent these accidents, instructors teach drivers to minimize balancing risks by keeping loads close to the ground and driving slowly when transporting elevated loads. They also emphasize proper response if a tip-over occurs: operators should remain seated and securely buckled, avoiding any attempt to jump off the forklift. 

Benefits of Ongoing Forklift Training

1. Improved Productivity and Confidence

With training on the best methods, forklift operators improve efficiency, which enhances the quality of goods and services provided. Ongoing professional development also makes operators feel more valued and supported by their employers. By exceeding minimum training requirements and continuously improving safety practices, their drive is heightened. This dual benefit of increased morale and efficiency motivates operators to work harder and achieve higher daily productivity.

2. Extended lifespan and reduced operating costs 

Comprehensive training, covering everything from forklift safety to proper pre-shift inspections, can significantly extend the lifespan of your lift trucks. Regular pre-shift inspections help identify minor maintenance issues early, allowing for prompt repairs before they escalate into costly problems. Proper forklift operation techniques also minimize wear and tear on the equipment, resulting in better-maintained machinery, longer lifespan and reduced operating costs. Businesses can save money by implementing ongoing forklift training programs. In Canada, forklifts contribute significantly to injuries and fatalities in the industrial sector each year, costing companies billions of dollars in compensation for injured employees. Even minor damages to forklifts can lead to production downtime and lost opportunities, escalating costs over time. By prioritizing ongoing forklift training, businesses can reduce operational expenses. Well-trained operators are more capable of handling machinery proficiently, ensuring smooth operations and preventing accidents and damage from occurring in the first place.

3. Minimize the risk of operator bad habits 

We all develop bad habits over time, including forklift operators. Whether it’s to save time or out of laziness, these shortcuts can significantly increase risks and the chances of injuries, forcing companies to cover all necessary medical expenses. Ongoing forklift training helps prevent this by keeping operators up-to-date on the latest best practices. Regular refreshers ensure forklift safety and reduce the chances of bad habits forming. Additionally, providing training certification to the insurance company after an accident may lower compensation costs. All this contributes to a safe workplace with well-trained and certified forklift operators who feel confident in their day-to-day work.

Reap the Rewards of Ongoing Forklift Training 

Preventative safety measures, including forklift training programs, have saved many lives over time. At Tailift Canada, we recognize that ensuring the safe operation of forklifts is essential. Basic forklift training is not enough to fully educate your team. New models, different environments and other variables require ongoing training to keep operators up-to-date with the latest procedures. To learn more about the benefits of ongoing forklift training, get in touch with us today.