What Are the Main Causes of Injuries When Using Forklifts?

Whether you’re looking for a new forklift or you’re just looking for ways to prevent forklift injuries in the South Florida workplace, we’ve got you covered. Driving a forklift involves plenty of concentration so that you can ensure you’re handling your job perfectly. While many new forklifts are simple to operate with training, forklift injuries can still occur when they’re used improperly. So, what are the main causes of injuries when using forklifts? The main causes of injuries when using a forklift are failure to communicate and lack of training.

While there can be many factors at play that cause a forklift injury, you’ll want to ensure that you’re providing proper communication and utilizing expert training when you’re driving a forklift. With that in mind, the experts at Rechtien International Trucks are going to go over some do’s and don’ts of forklift safety so that you can minimize injuries at the workplace!

Do’s & Don’ts of Forklift Safety

Now that we’ve answered, “What are the main causes of injuries when using forklifts?” it’s important that you understand what you should and shouldn’t do as you’re driving around the job site in a forklift. By keeping some of these items in mind, you can ensure that your forklift jobs are done safely and efficiently. Here are some of the dos and don’ts of forklift safety:

Communication

• Do: Communicate with other workers or people in the area you’re operating your forklift in.
• Don’t: Stay quiet and under-communicate what you’re doing if there are workers nearby.

Maintenance

• Do: Follow strict maintenance procedures and get regular maintenance with our service centers on your forklift.
• Don’t: Ignore unusual noises or avoid scheduling the proper maintenance intervals for your forklift.

Maintain Correct Speed

• Do: Watch as you’re driving around corners and maintain the correct speed.
• Don’t: Overturn your forklift by driving too quickly.

Driving With Loads

• Do: Check for overhead clearance with an elevated load. Elevated loads cause the forklift to be less stable and may result in a tip-over if you’re not careful.
• Don’t: Drive with an elevated load to minimize the safety risks.

Training

• Do: Review training material regularly to ensure that you’re staying up to date on OSHA standards for forklift driving.
• Don’t: Ignore training procedures and fail to maintain your forklift certification.

Avoid Forklift Injuries & Learn About Proper Forklift Driving Today With Rechtien International Trucks!

If you’re looking to get a new forklift, be sure to work with our team at Rechtien International Trucks before signing the dotted lines. That way, you’re properly trained and can avoid forklift injuries when possible at the job site. Contact us today if you’re looking for the proper information regarding forklift operation!