Forklifts are used in warehouses, building companies, and factories to move heavy loads efficiently and safely. However, accidents can happen while operating forklifts due to mistakes, leading to serious injuries, accidents, and financial losses.
The majority of these mistakes take place due to insufficient right training, lack of proper awareness at the workplace, or failure to adhere to safety measures.
An understanding of the most common forklift operating mistakes and how to keep them from happening is essential for all forklift operators.
This article introduces the most common forklift operation mistakes, their dangers, and the best methods of prevention.
1. Overloading the Forklift
It is tried by most operators to lift loads above the maximum permissible by the forklift. Forklift overloading is a serious safety risk. In the event of an overloaded forklift, it would most likely tip over due to lack of balance.
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The extra load would further overload the hydraulic system, leading to mechanical breakdown.
To avoid this mistake, the forklift load capacity should be verified each time prior to lifting.
The load should be as near to the mast as possible in order to balance. When the load is heavy or big, it should be transferred through smaller sections rather than transferred altogether at once.
2. Skipping Pre-Operation Inspections
A forklift should be inspected before each shift to ensure that it is in good working condition. There are operators who skip this because they feel that the equipment is fine.
This increases the chances of mechanical failure when operating. A forklift with worn brakes, hydraulic leaks, or flat tires can cause fatal accidents.
To prevent this, operators should perform daily safety checks. The brakes, tires, steering, and hydraulics should be inspected.
Malfunction or damage should be reported at once, and the forklift should not be used until repairs are made.
3. Improper Load Handling
Some operators do not position loads correctly on the forks, leading to imbalance.
Unsecured loads are likely to be thrown off when in motion. Improperly raising or tilting the forks can also lead to instability.
In order to lift the loads safely, the forks must be placed equidistant from the load. The load must be lifted slowly and held a little behind so that it remains stable. Rapid movements must not be employed as they cause the forklift to tip.
Experienced operators should consider enrolling in a forklift refresher course to stay up to date with safety practices.
4. Driving Too Fast is One of the most Common Forklift Operation Mistakes
Forklift accidents most often occur as a result of operators traveling too fast. Going too fast does not allow it to be quickly stopped in the event of an unexpected situation.
Suddenly taking sharp bends at high speeds also causes the forklift to lose equilibrium and tip.
A forklift should always be operated at a moderate speed. Operators should slow down when turning, stopping, or driving through heavy-traffic zones.
Workplace-speed limits as designated must be respected at all times.
5. Overlooking Environment During Operations
Certain operators fail to pay sufficient attention to their surroundings. This leads to collisions with other forklifts, guardrails, or even individuals.
Blind spots or inadequate lighting hinder vision, and this becomes all the more perilous.
Operators need to always check their surroundings prior to them moving the forklift. Mirrors can be used to see blind spots, and spotters should be present where necessary. The work area should have designated routes as well as warning signs to prevent collisions.
6. Not Communicating with Other Workers
Ineffective communication among forklift operators and other workers can lead to accidents. A pedestrian can step into the way of a forklift if he doesn’t realize that it is approaching.
Other workers may also transport materials in ways that can be hazardous to the forklift operator.
Operators should use horns, alarms, or hand signals to let others know where they are going. Eye contact should be made with pedestrians before moving in their direction.
Workplaces should also establish clear safety guidelines for forklift operations and pedestrian movement.
7. Using the Forklift for the Wrong Purpose
Forklifts have a specific application, yet certain operators overuse them in specific manners. Misuse can be moving human passengers, applying the forks to push or shove objects, or lifting objects larger than what is safely holdable.
A forklift is only to be used for its intended purpose. Employees are not to ride on the forks, and loads are not to be pushed in a way that could create instability. If another kind of lifting or moving equipment is needed, use that rather than a forklift.
8. Driving a Forklift with Poor Visibility
Forklifts are often used inside warehouses with top shelves and stacks of items that could create blind spots. Others carry loads that block their field of vision as well. This is contributing to the potential for running into objects, equipment, or fellow co-workers.
When the load is overweight and blocks the view of the driver, then the forklift has to be reversed. Mirrors and cameras should always be checked regularly in order to ensure good sight.
There is a need for sufficient lighting inside the workplace for minimal shadows and dark spots.
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9. Not Complying with Workplace Safety Regulations
There are safety regulations in the UK for working in all workplaces using forklifts, but some operators fail to follow them. This could mean wearing no seat belts, ignoring warning signs, or failing to slow down while approaching pedestrians.
Safety policies of the workplace need to be obeyed by operators at all times. Seat belts need to be worn all the time, and safety signs need to be obeyed. The managers need to ensure that the operators understand the rules and are trained to follow them.
10. Inadequate Training
The majority of forklift accidents are caused by the fact that operators have not been properly trained. Some workers are deployed to drive forklifts without full training on how to safely operate them. Without training, operators do not know how to handle loads, navigate in tight spaces, or handle emergencies.
Operators need to complete a full training course before operating a forklift. Training in forklifts in the UK needs to be accredited by the likes of RTITB, ITSSAR, or AITT. Periodic refresher training also needs to be conducted to keep skills up to the current level.
Conclusion
Forklift mistakes can lead to serious injury, damage to equipment, and downtime in the workplace.
The majority of such mistakes happen through ignorance, safety rule neglect, or insufficient training.
By acknowledging common forklift operation mistakes and taking the necessary precautions, workplaces can experience improved safety, productivity, and compliance with UK law.
A forklift should never be operated without caution, care, and proper training.
Pre-operational checks, defensive driving, and clear communication are all important to preventing accidents. Ensuring that all drivers are properly trained and following safety protocols will ensure a safer, more productive work environment.