Whether you’re looking for the best forklift sale in Australia or the discounted deals in the industry, one thing worth considering is when you’re in charge of your own forklift safety, it’s crucial to be aware of common causes of forklift accidents and how to avoid them. Forklifts can run into accidents if their operators aren’t careful or experienced enough, or if there are problems with the warehouse itself that cause people to lose control of their vehicles. Forklift accidents can lead to injuries and even death; make sure you take every precaution to avoid them in your workplace. Here are five ways to do so.
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1) Rushing
One of the most common causes of forklift accidents is rushing. Operators often feel pressure to get the job done quickly, which can lead to shortcuts and unsafe practices. If you’re feeling rushed, take a step back and assess the situation. Is there a way to do the job more efficiently? Can someone else help? Rushing is never worth the risk. Take your time to think through what needs to be done and make sure you have all the necessary tools before starting.
Be sure that everyone in the area knows what you are doing so they know when it’s safe for them to move around or come close by. Check your surroundings before turning corners or moving over obstacles. Make sure that your machine is at a low enough speed so if it does tip over it won’t go too far. When stacking boxes, use two people instead of one – one person stacks while the other follows with another stack nearby so they can catch up when they reach their limit.
2) Distractions
Whether it’s a phone call, text message, or personal conversation, any type of distraction can take a forklift operator’s attention away from the task at hand, increasing the risk of an accident. If you must take a call or respond to a text, pull over to a safe location first. Don’t just jump out of the cab and leave your load unattended while talking on the phone. It may seem like a harmless interruption but one false move could lead to serious injury for both you and others around you.
3) Fatigue
One of the most common causes of forklift accidents is operator fatigue. When working long hours, it’s important to take breaks and stay rested. If you feel yourself getting tired, take a break and come back when you’re feeling more alert. Make sure that your breaks are not just five minutes in the bathroom–you need to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Eating healthy foods and staying away from too much caffeine can also help keep you alert.
4) Poor vision and judgment
One of the most common causes of forklift accidents is poor vision and judgment. If you can’t see where you’re going, it’s easy to accidentally run into something or someone. Make sure your warehouse is well-lit and that you have a clear view of the area around you before operating a forklift. It’s also a good idea to wear safety glasses if you will be working in an environment with dust or other particles.