Moving your inventory manually is tiresome and can take a lot of time. But with the use of forklifts, the job has been simplified. Warehouse management can, therefore, relocate their labor somewhere else or save a little money by cutting down on the labor force. However, forklifts, no matter how effective they are, they present some safety concerns that if not addressed can become a liability. Warehouses and any other businesses that use these machines should observe forklift safety. Proper use of the forklifts ensures employee safety as well as inventory safety.
While warehouses may have taken measures to ensure their employees are insured as well as the inventory, it is still logical to make the warehouse a safe environment for everyone. If employees feel safe, there is nothing preventing them from doing a perfect job therefore forklift safety and other measures acts as a good motivation. Also, safety should be emphasized as much as you underscore the need for speed in the warehouse operations. Below are five safety tips that should be observed;
Inspect the forklift
Firstly, you must make sure that the machine you are operating is up to standards. You do not want it breaking down in the middle of moving inventory. That could have ugly consequences to the driver and other workers around the warehouse. It could be carrying a heavy load when the break down occurs or even worse, it loses its brakes, and the operator has no control. So, check the forklift and do the necessary repairs. The shift supervisor should know of any problems and adhere to the safety rules. Also, the forklift should be fuelled and packed carefully when not in use. The inspection of the forklift should be a daily thing and never assume that its fine from yesterday routine check.
The operator must be qualified
Avoid putting your employees in danger by hiring qualified forklift operators. The operator must provide proof of certification and be assessed. The operator should wear the seat belt and the proper operating attire. After all, this is all part of training. A refresher course can be offered to ensure the qualification is completed to a certain standard. The training should be per the OSHA regulations which have been formulated to maximize safety in the workplace. Experience is a factor to consider since the operator knows how to conduct themselves.
Pay attention during operation
There is a lot of traffic in the warehouse. The pedestrians can be harmed if they bump into the forklifts. Another source of danger is loads falling off the fork. Paying attention is hence an critical forklift safety tip. It ensures you do not run into other forklifts and employees. If the load obstructs your path, have some help finding your way or drive in reverse.
Be considerate to others
Forklift safety dictates you put others in mind. That means no fast moves, sudden turns and always alert people you are around. Educating other employees is also another way to prevent accidents. That is, asking them to stand or walk at a safe distance from the forks.
Watch the load
Avoid carrying more than the forklift can handle. Do not exceed the limit all in the name of efficiency and completing the job fast. Also, ensure the load is stable to prevent it from falling off affecting the forklift’s balance and increasing the risk of an accident. When putting it on the shelves, be careful.
Forklift safety allows smooth operations. Watching out for your employees is your number one priority, and these forklift safety tips will come in handy.
