5 Common Forklift Hazards You Can Easily Prevent
What are the common forklift hazards that can cause accidents in the workplace?
- Blind spots
- Refueling
- Floor conditions
- Overloading
- Speeding
When you’re operating a forklift in the Philippines, you need to accept that there will be risks involved. Even if high-quality forklifts are made with safety features and durable design, a responsible operator takes no chances when it comes to everyone’s welfare. To help you, here are the common forklift hazards you can easily prevent. Keep on reading!
Blind spots
Collision with unforeseen pedestrians typically happens in a warehouse, mainly because of obstructed view, poor lighting, and driver’s mistake. If the operator is not careful, the unexpected impact can result in major injuries.
When turning corners, an operator should drive at a slow and consistent speed while following the instructions of a spotter. Reversing can also be problematic, which is why it is recommended to keep your gaze on the direction of your travel. Other than that, a horn could be used to signal your arrival.
Thankfully, there are Clark Forklifts which are designed with good mast visibility, rearview cameras, and durable LED lights to improve the driver’s view. The streamlined dashboard is also simple to operate which guarantees your full attention to the travel path.
Refueling
Forklift engines are powered either by gas or diesel—which is flammable when exposed to fire. When gas leaks accidentally at the refueling area, even a tiny spark can ignite flames that can engulf your warehouse. Worse than that, an explosion can also happen. When you pour fuel in an enclosed space, there could be dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning as well.
Because of this, it is vital to train your operators on proper forklift use and maintenance—including refueling. Designate a well-ventilated area as a fueling station, complete with signage to inform pedestrians of the risks.
To mitigate the problem in case of a fire, install fire alarm boxes and extinguishers in easily seen locations. Other than that, pay attention to new hires especially when you see someone struggling with refueling.
Floor Conditions
Whether you’re driving on a flat surface or going up a ramp, an operator needs to be careful. Pooling water, debris, and unstable grounds are some of the numerous reasons why your forklift can tip over or collide with pedestrians.
Working in wet areas requires experience and special training. The combination of heavy loads and the contaminated floors will make it more difficult. As much as possible, the area should be cleared first before the operation.
To prevent your forklift from carrying debris and liquids inside your warehouse, it is recommended to install drainage at the entrance. After that, floor matting can scrape and wipe any contaminants left on the wheels.
Overloading
Due to high quotas, forklift operators either speed up their driving or overload their vehicles. Loading goods beyond the forklift’s capacity can lead to obstruction of vision, slow travel, and an unstable center of gravity which can cause the vehicle to tip over.
To prevent overloading, managers should set realistic expectations for their operators. Drivers themselves should also be educated on the limits at which they can operate. With Clark Forklifts, you will have an easier time because of the load weight measurement features included.
Speeding
Whether it’s due to playing around or reaching high quotas, speeding is a real problem in the workplace. Combined with other hazards—such as blind spots, floor conditions, and overloading—this equates to a major injury and costly damages at the site.
Unlike a traditional car, a forklift is harder to maneuver. Add to this the fact that warehouses have cluttered aisles and heavy foot traffic in most areas. When speeding, you won’t notice overhead obstructions—especially when the mast is lifted high. The high center of gravity can also tip you over anytime.
To prevent this hazard, maintain an ideal traveling distance between forklifts. 20 feet is the recommended measurement, but you can also count 3 seconds before passing the same area. Decrease speed when approaching objects, persons, and corners. Fortunately, some Clark forklift models have cushion tires for operation in tight spaces.
Key Takeaway
Forklifts might look small and compact, but these vehicles can only be operated by properly trained individuals. To prevent these common forklift hazards, it is vital that all drivers understand the consequences of being hasty.
Because of the safety features designed in Clark Forklifts, your operator will have an easier time avoiding the hazards presented in the workplace. By combining training, the right equipment, and discipline, you can ensure a safe working space for all your workers. If you’re interested, send a message to Multico here!
