Forklift Safety | Toledo, Ohio wrokplace injury attorney

Forklift safety is a critical problem. Each year nearly 5,000 people are hurt or killed from forklift accidents. There are some basic principles to abide by so that you can ensure a safe working environent. It is crucial that any worker using a forklift should be properly trained and qualified to use the forklift for the specific job. Here are some safety priciples to abide by when operatin a forklift:

-Check the equipment and load before use. Always check that the load is within the forklift load limit listed on the load capacity plate. If the load isn't placed correctly, reload it. Stability is Critical for Safe Operation.

-Be aware of stability issues. A forklift can become dangerously unstable when being driven with a raised load or a raised empty load carriage. Dual wheeled forklifts provide an extra margin of safety in lateral stability when lifting loads above 15 feet. Another important point is that loads attached to a forklift or suspended from a jib attachment are more likely to result in a full forward tip over when braking.

-Keep loads uphill. It's easy to tip over on ramps and sloping surfaces, whether the forklift is loaded or unloaded. When driving a loaded forklift on ramps with a grade of 10% or more always keep the load uphill, even if this means driving in reverse down the ramp.

-Stay with the forklift if it begins to tip over. Experience from around the world has shown that staying in the vehicle is the safest way to go. The most common cause of death with these vehicles is when an operator attempts to jump clear of an overturning forklift and is crushed by either the overhead protective guard structure or the mast. The operator should remain in the forklift with the seatbelt fastened, grip the steering wheel firmly, brace both feet on the floor, and lean their body away from the direction of the fall.

-When forward visibility is obstructed or blocked, always drive in reverse. Don't try to see around the load.

-Forklifts are dangerous and must be treated with care. Lifting people on the forks is unsafe and should never be allowed.

-Exclusion zones must be established in the workplace that are for forklifts only. Safety officers must ensure that all workers recognize and respect these zones.

-Level floors are important: Uneven flooring, particularly with a height difference in excess of 1.6 inches across the front wheels, can seriously affect a forklift's stability when carrying its rated load at full height.

If you have been involved in any sort of work accident, including one with a forklift, you need help. Our Toledo, Ohio work injury lawyers are here for you. Our  Toledo , OH workers compensation attorneys are experienced at getting you the settlement you deserve.

Call our office at 800.637.8170 to speak with a lawyer today!

 

(Source: jerebeasleyreport.com)