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Forklift Safety Rules

Each year there are nearly 100,000 injuries from forklift accidents in the United States, including one fatality every three days. The leading cause of injury to operators is forklift tip-over. The second most common accident involves pedestrians being struck by forklifts. Remembering some basic safety rules can prevent many of these accidents.

  1. Basic Safety

    • When operating a forklift, the operator is solely responsible for its safe operation. This begins with a daily checklist--completed at the beginning of each shift--to be certain the machine is safe to operate. Any problems should be corrected before the machine is used. The operator should always wear a safety belt and any other required safety equipment. He should always be certain he has a clear path of travel, should not overload the equipment, and should sound the horn when nearing an intersection or working around pedestrians. The operator must also be aware of any hazards unique to the workplace, such as ramps or overhead obstructions. Forklifts should be used only by trained and certified operators.

    Protecting the Operator in a Tip-Over Situation

    • When a forklift tips over, the greatest danger to the operator is being crushed by the overhead guard. This is made far more likely if the operator attempts to jump clear of the machine. So the most important safety rule is: Do not jump. Firmly grip the steering wheel. Brace your feet. Lean away from the direction of the fall. If you remain in the operator compartment, your risk of injury drops dramatically. (The use of a safety belt helps.)

    Pedestrian Safety

    • Most pedestrian injuries result from the rear-end swing of the forklift. Pedestrians and some operators often forget that forklifts steer with their rear tires, resulting in a swing of the machine's rear. When the forklift turns, a pedestrian can be struck and even pinned against a wall or another object, resulting in serious injury or death. To avoid this danger, pedestrians should remain in marked walkways. Forklift operators should use their horn when working near pedestrians and remember that pedestrians have the right of way. Operators should not assume that pedestrians will remain clear. A forklift should also be equipped with a signal to alert pedestrians and other operators when it is backing up. It is vital for the operator to always maintain a clear path of travel.

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