A powered industrial truck is more commonly known as a forklift. It is useful for transporting heavy loads from one place to another and thus has many industrial applications. However, it can also be very dangerous. For example, bystanders may be injured by being struck or crushed by the vehicle, while operators may get hurt by falling from the platform or by a forklift rollover. To prevent accidents such as these, forklift safety measures should be observed at all times.
- Get Your License
Getting your forklift OSHA license Commerce CA is the first step toward operating a powered industrial truck. To get your license, you have to go through extensive training that explains all the potential hazards of driving a forklift and how to avoid them.
- Avoid Hazardous Areas
The moving parts of a forklift can cause serious injury if contact is made. Be sure to avoid these as well as staying clear of the load itself. If this were to fall on you, the results could be disastrous.
- Observe Designated Speed Limits
Driving a forklift too fast could cause you to tip over or lose your load. Work areas have speed limits set for forklifts. Observe these just as you do speed limits posted by roadsides when you are driving your car.
- Know What To Do if the Forklift Tips Over
Despite your best efforts to prevent such accidents, you may one day find yourself in a forklift that tips over. If this happens, you can reduce your risk of injury by staying seated in the vehicle. Brace your feet on the floor and grip the wheel tightly. Your instinct may be to try to jump clear of the machine, but that is more likely to result in injury.
A forklift is a necessary piece of equipment. Nevertheless, the inherent risk of operating it will never go away. It can only be mitigated through responsibility and vigilance in operating it.