National Forklift Safety Day: 5 practices to keep in mind

The Industrial Truck Association (ITA) created National Forklift Safety Day (NFSD) to educate customers, policymakers and government officials about forklift safety and the importance of proper operator training. In honour of this event, which takes place this year on June 8, here are five of the most important forklift safety tips operators should practise.

1. Examine the forklift before each use

At the beginning of their shift, Operators should complete a checklist as recommended by the forklift manufacturer. For example, it’s advisable to examine the steering, brakes, horn, forks, mast and tires for any irregularities. If there’s any damage to the forklift, the operator must make note of it and inform their shift supervisor while refraining from operating the equipment until it’s repaired.

2. Wear a seatbelt and personal protective equipment (PPE) based on application.

Hard hats, protective footwear, protective eyeglasses, and high-visibility clothing are some common examples for forklift

operators. In addition, operators are required to use a seatbelt; doing so could save them from being crushed by the forklift’s overhead guard or roll cage in an accident.

3. Stay alert

Operators must pay attention to their surroundings, know the layout of their workplace and any danger zones. Worksite rules, policies, guidelines, signs and warnings must be understood and followed, particularly those indicating loading sites and clearance restrictions.

4. Operate the forklift at a safe speed

Operators must never exceed speed limits and always proceed with caution. It’s important to take corners slowly and avoid suddenly stopping or changing directions to minimize the risk of tipping.

5. Don’t overload the forklift

Operators must know the capacity of their forklift and any attachments being used to ensure they never exceed it. Overloading can cause the rear tires on the forklift to heave off the ground or tip over.

The eighth annual National Forklift Safety Day will build on these safety tips and delve into a variety of topics, including government policies and regulations affecting forklift operator training. To hear this year’s keynote speakers, register for the virtual event today.

Forklift sales in Western Canada

ARPAC is Western Canada’s leading material handling retailer and is an authorized dealer for Unicarrier and Crown forklifts. We offer a full range of warehouse products and equipment, including used forklifts and pallet racking, to meet the unique needs and budget requirements of our customers. To find out more about our selection of forklifts, maintenance programs and operator training courses, contact us at our Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver or Lethbridge location.