In many factories, warehouses and construction sites, forklifts are an essential piece of equipment that forms the cornerstone of operational performance. They perform key functions and help to ensure operations run smoothly and on time.
However, when forklifts are not used properly, they can also be one of the leading causes of workplace accidents. To help keep your workers safe, it is important to be aware of the most common types of forklift accidents and how to avoid them.
Here at Forkserve, we’re committed to maintaining the highest standard of workplace safety. We’ve been in the forklift business for more than 40 years and know all the ins and out of this specialised piece of equipment. We’ve put together this blog to give our clients a better understanding of some of the common forklift accidents that can occur, and how you can implement some key steps to ensure everyone’s safety.
Tip-over
One of the most common types of forklift accidents is a tip-over. This occurs when the forks of the lift are overloaded or the ground is uneven, causing the lift to tip onto its side. These accidents usually happen when the load on the forklift is not evenly distributed or when the operator is trying to lift a heavy load.
To avoid these accidents, it is important to ensure the load is balanced and that the forks are properly positioned before attempting to lift it. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for loading and unloading the forklift, and never try to overload the forks or exceed the weight limit.
In addition, it is important to ensure that the ground in your operational environment is level and that appropriate floor maintenance procedures are followed.
Collisions
Another common type of accident is a collision. This can happen when two forklifts collide with each other or when a forklift collides with its surroundings. These accidents often occur when workers are not paying attention to what’s around them or when they are trying to hurry.
To avoid these accidents, it is important to make sure that everyone who operates a forklift is properly trained and that they always follow proper safety procedures, such as maintaining a safe speed and being aware of their surroundings at all times. In addition, it is important to keep the area around the forklifts clear of obstacles so there is plenty of room for manoeuvring.
Pedestrian Strike
One of the most dangerous types of forklift accidents is a pedestrian strike. These accidents can occur for a number of reasons such as:
- when operators fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians
- when they drive carelessly in areas where pedestrians are present
- Poor pedestrian behaviour
To avoid pedestrian strikes, it is important to always be aware of your surroundings and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians whenever possible. In addition, you should never drive carelessly in areas where pedestrians are present. Instead, you should always drive slowly and watch for people walking nearby.
It is also incumbent on pedestrians to maintain awareness of what is happening around them, wear hi-vis vests and only walk in designated walkways.
Hitting an Obstacle While Backing Up
Another common type of accident is hitting an obstacle while backing up. This can be anything from another vehicle to a wall or column. If you are not paying attention, it is easy to misjudge the distance and end up making contact with something.
To avoid this, always check your surroundings before backing up, and use a spotting mirror to help you see behind you. If necessary, have someone else guide you as you back up to help ensure that you do not hit anything.
Loss of Control
Another common type of forklift accident is loss of control. This can occur when a forklift is driven too fast, or when it makes a sharp turn. It can also happen if the load being carried is heavier than the forklift is designed to handle.
To avoid this type of accident, it is important to always drive at a safe speed and to avoid sudden turns. If you’re travelling on a slope, always do so slowly and carefully, and if possible, use a spotter to help guide you down the hill. The load must always be facing the uphill direction. It is also important to make sure that the load being carried is within the weight limit for the forklift.
Falling Off the Forks
This type of accident usually happens when the operator is trying to reach something that is out of reach. Instead of using a ladder or other device to safely reach the item, they will stand on the forks and try to stretch out to get it. This can be extremely dangerous, as there is a risk of falling and being seriously injured.
If something is out of reach, do not try to get it by standing on the forks. Use a ladder or other tool to safely reach it instead.
Forklifts are an essential piece of equipment in many businesses, but they can also be dangerous. Every year, there are thousands of accidents involving forklifts, and many of these accidents result in serious injuries or even death. To help keep your workers safe, it is important to be aware of the most common types of forklift accidents and how to avoid them.
The most common types of forklift accidents include; tip-overs, collisions, pedestrian strikes, hitting an obstacle while backing up, loss of control, and falling off the forks. In order to avoid these types of accidents it’s vital that all operators undertake a comprehensive forklift training program which covers proper procedures to be followed and safety protocols to be adhered to.
During forklift operation, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for loading and unloading the forklift, and to always travel at a safe speed and be aware of your surroundings.
Personne needing to work or pass through areas where forklifts are in operation should also ensure that they maintain awareness of what is happening around them and that they only use designated walkways.
With proper care and attention, forklift-related accidents in the workplace can be prevented, helping to keep workers safe and operations running smoothly.
We hope that this blog has been informative. Here at Forkserve, with over 40 years of experience in the industry, we have the right knowledge and expertise to advise you on all matters forklift related. Whether you are looking to purchase a new forklift, rent a forklift, or need some advice on best practice forklift operation, we can help. We’ll take the time to understand your unique requirements and provide you with tailored advice to ensure that you choose the perfect forklift for your needs.
For any of your Forklift needs, why not contact us today?