Forklift Safety—Everything you need to know

Safety is paramount when driving a forklift. Operators need to know how to keep themselves, others, and their cargo safe. This blog will look at some of the most important safety rules regarding forklifts, as well as common forklift accidents and how they can be prevented. 

Also called lift trucks, reach trucks or tow motors, forklifts are a commonplace vehicle on construction sites, in warehouses and in manufacturing facilities. Designed to carry heavy, large loads on wooden pallets, forklifts drastically improve the efficiency of these work sites when used correctly. Unfortunately, overconfidence and a lack of formal training in forklift operation and safety makes for multiple accidents and even deaths every year. For this reason, the following safety rules have been established. According to Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety, some of the most common factors of forklift accidents are:

• Excessive speed
• Improper driving
• Improper warnings to others
• Poor communication
• Riding with the load elevated
• Inadequate servicing of the forklift

To prevent accidents while on the job, forklift safety training is mandatory in Canada. Formal training takes place at education centres all over Ontario and the rest of Canada, and it’s important to choose a course that meets the directives of the Canadian Standards Association. A standardised forklift safety course includes information and training on forklift inspection, identifying working hazards, operating the machinery, load handling and forklift stability. Though a licence is not required to operate a forklift in Canada, this training is required. Many employers require their employees to have safety certification, which is normally renewed every three years.

As warehouse forklift safety and the safety of the overall working environment in which forklifts are used is the responsibility of the employer, they are also expected to undergo safety training. This is important to the general safety of the work site since only a safety certified employer or manager can properly oversee employees’ use of forklifts and other equipment. Employers are also responsible for the regular maintenance of forklifts and other machinery on their work sites.

Conduct a vehicle check before use every day

A forklift operator should inspect the vehicle carefully every day before using it, even if there has just been a shift change. Walk around the vehicle to perform a circle check, looking for problems with the vehicle itself as well as potential risks around the vehicle, such as objects in the path. Look for the following:

• worn out tires
• correct tire pressure
• damage to the vehicle body
• dents/cracks on the load backrest
• intact lights and gauges
• proper coolant, fuel, hydraulic and brake fluid levels

Next, perform an operational check to make sure that each component of the forklift truck is working properly:

• functioning handbrake
• transmission condition
• inching control
• hoisting, lowering and tilt control
• functioning horns and backup alarm
• working headlamps and flashers

Forklift maintenance prevents future problems

Regular maintenance of any machine or vehicle can prevent unnecessary mechanical problems. Keep your forklifts in peak condition by routinely doing the following:

• Clean off excess oil and smudges
• Refer to the official manual for cleaning and maintenance timetables
• Take note of any unusual sounds or occurrences when using the forklift
• If repairs are needed, take the forklift out of use until they are completed. Using a damaged machine will only cause further damage, as well as risk to the operator and those nearby
• Repairs should be performed by an authorised mechanic only

Operating a forklift safely means paying attention

Forklift drivers, like all vehicle operators, need to pay full attention while using their vehicle to avoid accidents. Three of the most common safety issues caused by forklift operators are speeding, moving with the forks high, and not checking for people in the vicinity. These are simple issues to fix! Keep the forks low, drive slowly and always check for pedestrians before moving—forklift and pedestrian safety is at stake. Always pay attention to what you are doing, and what is going on around you.
Keep the following tips in mind when operating a forklift.

• Always wear your forklift seatbelt. This simple action can greatly reduce the risk of injury in the event of a sudden stop or tip-over.
• Adhering to the speed limit and driving cautiously is crucial. Forklifts are not designed for high-speed travel, and excessive speed can lead to accidents and loss of control.
• When driving with a load, it is recommended to tilt the load slightly backward and to raise or lower it only when the forklift has come to a complete stop. This practice ensures stability and minimises the risk of tipping.
• Always be mindful of the load's weight and distribution. The load should never exceed the forklift's capacity (this will be noted in the vehicle’s manual), and it must be secured and stable. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in accidents and damage to both the forklift and its operator.
• When approaching intersections, navigating blind corners or moving through areas with pedestrian traffic, it is essential to stop and sound the horn to alert others to your presence. This helps prevent collisions and ensures a safe forklift working environment.
• Inside the forklift, be cautious and keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times, especially when it is in motion. This simple practice can prevent injuries and accidents, as well as protect you from potential hazards.
• In line with safety regulations, wear the necessary personal protective equipment while operating the forklift. This includes items such as a helmet, safety vest and any other required protective gear. PPE is designed to safeguard you from workplace hazards. As for clothing, avoid loose garments that could become stuck in the equipment.
• At the end of your shift, ensure that you lower the forks, neutralise the controls, set the brakes and shut off the engine. This routine maintenance helps keep the forklift in good working condition.
• Finally, prior to each use, inspect the forklift thoroughly and report any damage or problems to your supervisor immediately. This proactive approach contributes to the safe operation of the forklift and the well-being of all individuals in the workplace.

We have forklifts with a wide range of load capacities

Whether you need a small-load forklift capable of handling up to 2,000 pounds, or industrial vehicles that can handle over 15,000 pounds, we’ve got what you’re looking for. Browse our selection of top-class forklift trucks today or get in touch if you need help figuring out the details.

Speak to a representative now, toll-free at 1-877-435-4352, or send us a message online and we’ll be in touch ASAP.