OSHA requires forklift trucks to be inspected at least once per day, or after every shift if in constant use (Powered Industrial Truck OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7). The inspection doesn’t have to be documented. However, there are four really good reasons why you should document the inspection: Having a pre-printed checklist ensures that no […]

Forklift Safety Elements – Know About Load Basics OSHA advises operators to check loads before picking them up with the forks, ensuring the load’s stability and dimensions will allow for safe transport. Move squarely in front of the load and move the forks apart as far as possible before driving them under the load. Make […]

Know the machinery – and the rules Although lift trucks and personal vehicles share some similarities, they ultimately are quite different. Among the differences: Open structure; the driver is not completely enclosed Weights ranging from 9,000 to 30,000 pounds, with rough-terrain lift trucks at the heavier end Traveling speeds of less than 20 mph, closer […]

5 elements of forklift safety – Part 2 Performing checkups Operators are urged to inspect forklifts before each job, checking first the items that can be monitored without the engine running. Checkpoints should include seat belts, tires, lights, horns, brakes, backup alarms, and fluid levels, as well as the moving and load-supporting parts of the […]

5 elements of forklift safety – Part 1 Train for safety OSHA estimates that 35,000 serious injuries and 62,000 non-serious injuries involving forklifts occur annually. Further, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that 96 U.S. workers were killed in incidents involving forklifts in 2015. A safety guide published by the Washington State Department […]