While the safety guidelines for operating a forklift can seem tedious, cumbersome, and a potential complete waste of time for those already experienced in the warehousing industry, the truth is, they exist for a reason. When forklifts are used properly and rules are followed, they increase efficiency and make jobs much easier. But when a person becomes complacent in his or her daily function in the warehouse, this could happen. Here are some lessons that can be learned from this video (after the chuckling is finished!).
Be Cautious of Speed.
Most forklifts steer from the rear. What does this mean for operators? This means the back of the forklift swings on a wide turn. SLOW DOWN! Turning and stopping at a slow and smooth pace will help prevent the vehicle from rolling over. As demonstrated in this video, the vehicle may come off balance upon sudden, quick turns.
Horseplay is for Horses
While there may be downtime at work on occasion, this is definitely not the time for a person to test his or her “teen spirit.” Partaking in silly stunts with a forklift can lead to not-so-silly injuries. Even when a person thinks they’ve got it under control, the machine can still take over, so being safe and cautious needs to be first and foremost.
Drive with Caution
Just like driving a car, something can pop out in front of a forklift driver at any time. Operating a vehicle slowly and being aware of surroundings are the keys to operating any moving vehicle.
Know the Machine’s Limits
Top-loading a smaller forklift that isn’t equipped for huge jobs is a recipe for disaster. Being aware of the vehicle’s limitations will save everyone a trip to the hospital and expenses in materials.
Be Aware of the Space
Not paying attention to what’s around can have detrimental effects on a forklift operator’s productivity (or job). Keeping an eye on available space, from floor to ceiling and wall to wall, helps keep products and people safe.
Forklifts Have No Fear
Forklifts rely on their drivers to keep them out of harm’s way, and it’s up to the driver to do so. As afraid as a forklift operator may be of going over the edge, they have to remember that the forklift doesn’t share this same fear. Being cautious when loading and unloading, as well as analyzing the environment, are imperative to making sure man (or woman) and machine come away from a job safe and happy.
Know the Load
Some products, honestly, just haven’t been packed optimally to play nice with a forklift. With a little bit of experience, most operators can size up a project within a few minutes, or even seconds. If something looks suspect, it pays to report it before paying the price later.
There’s Gotta be a Better Way
If something looks dangerous, like unstable glass, it’s probably because it IS. Warehouse managers need to facilitate conversation and openness and encourage operators to come to them if a job looks dangerous, to work together to find solutions.
Judgment Matters
Even if something looks like it will fit you still need to confirm! Checking distance and space can literally save a warehouse from falling down.
The Vehicle Goes Where It’s Told to Go
Becoming complacent and not paying attention to simple things such as the gear an operator is in, can effectively be the downfall of the company (and a job).
It’s easy to become complacent, but just as easy to stay aware with these forklift tips hailed from forklift fails!