Operating the forklift isn’t the easiest job on earth, and neither is it the safest. While no sane manager or supervisor overlooks worker safety, it’s easy to forget about the forklift. That’s because forklifts are more subdued equipment that barely make any noise and require minimum supervision.

Though forklifts seem like harmless lifting equipment, they account for about 85 deaths every year. That’s why forklift operators need to know the common forklift safety tips by heart.

The danger with forklifts is that they are difficult to stop because they only have brakes on their front tires. They also weigh about 9,000 pounds; as much as thrice the weight of an average car.

Forklifts, just like any other material handling equipment, requires the utmost care and diligence to operate. 

Regardless of how busy or skillful you are, safety should never take the backseat when operating the forklift. If you’re a forklift operator, here are some safety tips to remember when on the job.

1. Don’t Leave the Forklift Unattended

This is a rookie mistake that no professional forklift operator should be making. Plus, in case you didn’t know, it’s illegal to leave your forklift unattended with the keys still in the ignition.

Make sure you turn off the forklift when not in use to reduce the chances of a potential injury.  You should also close the service valves to save on fuel, which is great for business.

2. Always Inspect Propane Cylinder

When was the last time you inspected the propane cylinder? If it’s a long time, then it’s time you give them a look.

You should check whether the propane cylinders have any rust, dents or leaks.  If they do, then it’s high time you call your propane supplier for replacements. 

Sometimes your propane cylinders may wear out way before the prequalification date. If that’s the case, you still have to replace them. Talk to your superior or anyone in charge to arrange for servicing or replacement.

3. Store the Propane Cylinders Safely

Apart from inspecting the propane cylinders regularly, make sure you store them in a cage or rack away from heavy traffic. That means you should keep them away from entrances, exits, and stairways. Also, ensure you pick up the cylinders carefully and place them gently inside their racks or cages.

The best way to place these cylinders is to position them horizontally with the pressure relief valves at the top. You can get a refresher on how to lift and store these cylinders properly from your propane supplier.

4. Inspect the Forklift Before You Operate It

Don’t just jump straight into it, before starting work, make sure you give your forklift a thorough inspection. This should be something routine, and with time it will be close to nature. 

While doing your inspection, make sure you check for any dents, damage, or missing parts. If something’s wrong, inform your supervisor immediately and drop your work until everything’s fixed up. Never operate a faulty forklift.

5. Always Wear Your PPE

OSHA requires all employers to furnish their workers with personal protective equipment, and forklift operators are no exception. So before turning the ignition, make sure you have your hard hats, visible wear, and work boots on.

6. Wear Your Seatbelt

Buckling up is very important if you’re operating a forklift. A forklift can easily tip over because it has more weight on its rear to counterbalance the weight it has to lift in front.

Wearing your seatbelt keeps you safe should the forklift overturn. The seat belt also prevents you from getting crushed by the overhead when you get into an accident.

7. Remember the Weight Limit

Even if you think the forklift can handle it, don’t surpass the forklift’s weight limit. Most forklift accidents are a result of exceeding the stipulated weight limit. If you overload the machine, there’s a high chance that it will tip over.

8. Drive Safely and Hoot If You Have To

Operate your forklift at safe speeds and don’t attempt any crazy antics with it. We don’t need to remind you how easily a forklift tips over, and how dangerous it is when it does. As such, you should operate it steadily, and slow down when you have to take corners.

Hoot whenever someone obstructs your vision so they can move, or you can stop gradually before you hit them. Remember, forklifts take longer to come to a stop because they don’t have brakes on their rear wheels.

9. Reset Forklift to “Default” When You’re Done

Once you finish what you’re doing, turn the forklift off, pull the parking brake, lower the forks and set the controls to neutral. Doing so ensures that there’s no unexpected movement once you get off of work. For heavier forklifts, you may want to secure them with wheel blocks, just in case you’ve parked them on a slope.

10. Secure the Pressure Release Valve

Before you close up, make sure you properly secure the pressure release valve. After the valve clicks into place, ensure it points away from the locating ping. Make sure it’s facing the completely opposite direction that the locating pin faces.

Always Observe These Forklift Safety Tips

Forklift operators should always prioritize safety whenever they use their folk lifts. With these few forklift safety tips, hopefully, you’ll be able to operate your forklifts with absolutely zero accidents. Remember to service and inspect your forklifts regularly.

Also, make sure you buy your propane cylinders and your forklifts from a reputable supplier. For strong, reliable, and certified forklifts, contact us today and find one for yourself.