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7 Deadly Sins
Most accidents involving lift trucks happen because of complacency, not only on the part of the driver but also by those working in the same area, and often as a result of cutting corners to save time.
Ultimately it is the responsibility of the operator to ensure his own safety as well as that of his colleagues.
- Don't drive with an elevated load
Yes it's easier to see where you are going in a hurry, but when you raise the load you raise the centre of gravity, upsetting the balance of the lift truck. Not surprising then that it tips when cornering. - Don't drive with an unstable load
The slightest bump or turning movement will result in the load being deposited everywhere but where it was supposed to be. - On ramps travel with the load upwards
The load may be stable on level ground when you start off but think ahead. It doesn't take much of a slope to unsettle a stack. Only go downhill with empty forks. - Be aware of trouble spots
There are likely to be many blind spots in the operating area, at the end of aisles, by stacks of product or simply round corners. Just as you can't see, neither can your colleagues, whether pedestrian or operating machinery, so proceed with caution. - Take extra care on loading docks
In the frantic rush to load a trailer the repetition can easily make you oblivious to the fact that the lorry has inadvertently started to move away. By the time you react several tons of machine and product are flying through the air, along with yourself. - Never carry passengers
A sudden movement or reaction will send your colleague sprawling, possibly into the very thing you were trying to avoid. Neither should anyone be lifted up on the forks or a pallet to effect overhead repairs, one slip could be disastrous. Man-up cages can be obtained for this purpose. - Keep your limbs inside the truck
The Safety cage is exactly that, anything sticking out has no protection at all.
A slight distraction may not just break your concentration