Forklifts are essential pieces of machinery in many industries, allowing the efficient movement of heavy loads within warehouses, factories, and construction sites. However, the operation of a forklift can also be dangerous if safety precautions are not taken seriously. In this blog, covering forklift maintenance and safety, we will outline some general safety precautions for businesses to follow when operating a forklift, as well as provide information on driver training and certification.
Forklift Safety Procedures: An Overview
In order to make sure that your fleet is running well, and safely, there are a few things that you need to consider:
Ensure Proper Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your forklifts is essential to ensure their safety and make sure they are working properly. Make sure that the forklift is inspected and serviced regularly, and any issues are addressed immediately.
One great way to keep on top of this is to look into a servicing contract for your fleet. This will cover all the regular maintenance, safety inspections and can also include call outs when your forklifts breakdown. For more on the options for your business, get in touch with our team to chat about what we can offer for your fleet’s forklift maintenance and safety.
Daily Inspections before using your forklift fleet
Before operating the forklift, conduct an inspection to ensure that all parts are functioning correctly, such as the brakes, steering, and tires. Report any issues found during inspection to ensure that these can be followed up on, and if needed the forklift can be taken out of operation while repairs are carried out.
Wear Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE must be worn when operating a forklift, including a hard hat, safety glasses, high visibility clothing, and steel-toed boots.
Observe Safe Operating Procedures
Training for your forklift drivers is also key. Once you have inspected your forklifts, operators are the ones who are going to need to use these trucks safely throughout the day to carry out their work.
The driver must follow all safe operating procedures, including obeying traffic signs, driving within the speed limit, and avoiding abrupt turns or stops.
They need to be aware of their surroundings, and keep an eye out for pedestrians and other vehicles. Use the horn when approaching blind spots or corners and ensure the load is stable before moving.
Driver Training and Certification
Another aspect of safety when using forklifts, is driver training. Ensuring that your team know what they are doing when they operate forklifts and are familiar with your fleet and site are an important part of overall safety. Good ongoing driver training is also a great way to ensure that your team are ready for all aspects of the job you need them to do and can develop alongside your business.
In the UK, it is a legal requirement for anyone operating a forklift to have undergone proper training and received certification. This ensures that the operator is knowledgeable and capable of operating the forklift safely.
The training includes both theoretical and practical components, covering topics such as forklift operation, safe operating procedures, and pre-operation inspections. The practical training includes hands-on experience operating the forklift, practising manoeuvring in tight spaces, and loading and unloading materials safely.
The certification process includes a written exam and a practical assessment, both of which must be passed to receive certification. Certification must be renewed every three years, and refresher training should be undertaken to keep up with any changes in forklift operation procedures and regulations.
Forklift Safety: An Ongoing Commitment in any Business
Forklifts are essential for many businesses, but their operation can be dangerous without proper safety precautions. Ensuring proper maintenance, conducting pre-operation inspections, wearing proper PPE, observing safe operating procedures, and being aware of your surroundings can help prevent accidents. Putting forklift maintenance and safety at the centre of your business makes good business sense.
Proper driver training and certification are also essential to ensure safe operation of forklifts. UK businesses must comply with legal requirements for training and certification to ensure their operators are knowledgeable and capable of operating forklifts safely. By following these guidelines, businesses can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of their employees and the surrounding environment.
To talk to one of our friendly team about servicing or maintenance for your fleet, including safety inspections, get in touch here.
