
Welcome to this weeks #ForkliftFocus where we are taking a look at the forklift safety initiatives set out on national Forklift Safety Day 2024. On Tuesday 11th June 2024 marked National Forklift Safety Day here in the UK. This weeks #ForkliftFocus provides an overview of this years National Forklift Safety Day and discusses this years initiatives and offers some top tips on how to keep your forklift operators safe this summer.
National Forklift Safety Day is a significant initiative in the UK material handling sector focusing on forklift safety. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of operator training and safe forklift use. This year’s campaign, supported by the theme “Prevent – Manage – Learn,” begins on June 11th and runs until December 9th.
The 7 Stages of the Forklift Incident Cycle
- Prepare (June 11th):
- Reduce the chance of incidents becoming accidents.
- Take preventive actions before operating a forklift.
- View informative resources on preparation.
- Respond (July 10th):
- Know what to do immediately after a forklift accident.
- Handle the aftermath effectively and safely.
- Investigate (August 8th):
- Properly investigate the cause of accidents.
- Learn from incidents to prevent future occurrences.
- Report (September 13th):
- Understand statutory obligations for incident reporting.
- Learn about RIDDOR and LOLER reporting.
- Restart (October 12th):
- Safely resume production after an incident.
- Focus on training and thorough examination.
- Learn (November 10th):
- Analyze errors that contributed to incidents.
- Improve workplace safety based on lessons learned.
- Prevent (December 9th):
- Implement effective prevention strategies.
- Encourage near-miss reporting and hazard awareness.
Top Tips for Safe Forklift Operation
- Qualified Operators Only:
- Ensure that only trained and certified operators handle forklifts.
- Regularly update certifications.
- Wear the Correct Clothing:
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Wear high-visibility vests and steel-toed boots.
- Inspect the Equipment Daily:
- Check for any defects, leaks, or damage.
- Inspect brakes, tires, lights, and hydraulics.
- Maintain 360° Visibility:
- Keep clear sightlines around the forklift.
- Use mirrors and be aware of blind spots.
- Secure the Load:
- Properly secure loads with straps or chains.
- Distribute weight evenly to maintain stability.
- Observe Operating Environment Changes:
- Be aware of floor conditions, ramps, and slopes.
- Adjust driving speed accordingly.
- Never Exceed Equipment Capacity:
- Know the forklift’s load capacity.
- Avoid overloading to prevent accidents.
Remember, safe forklift operation is everyone’s responsibility. Regular training, awareness, and adherence to safety guidelines contribute to accident prevention and a safer workplace
References
nationalforkliftsafetyday.co.uk
nationalforkliftsafetyday.co.uk