Safe Work Practices > Safe Use of Forklifts/Lift Trucks

Date Reviewed: February 15, 2023

These are typically the kinds of serious incidents that can happen around forklifts/lift trucks. Often the victims are pedestrians who are either struck by the equipment or by the load. The operators themselves are often the victims as well, injured by the load or the forklift/lift truck mechanism.

Forklift/lift truck safety is everyone’s concern – not just that of the operator. Anyone who works around these machines needs to be aware of the associated dangers.

Following are some tips to follow in order to operate forklift/lift trucks safely:

•You must be both authorized and proven qualified before operating a forklift/lift truck. Many incidents occur when untrained personnel attempt to drive this type of equipment. These machines operate differently than an automobile and require special training.

•Inspect the vehicle prior to operating it. Ensure the controls, brakes, tires, lights, horn and other integral parts are functioning correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s checklist for these daily inspections. Immediately report any unsafe conditions to management. Make any minor adjustments if you are qualified, but leave the major ones to trained and authorized mechanics. NOTE: All checklists must be turned in to the Safety Advisor for records keeping.

•Before starting the forklift/lift truck ensure that neither yourself nor any other worker will be in danger.

•Check the load capacity of the forklift/lift truck. The rated load capacity must never be exceeded. Also make sure that you know the load capacity of any floors, elevators, ramps or trailers that you will be driving onto.

•The forklift/lift truck must be equipped with an overhead guard to protect from risk of falling objects, so ensure it is in good condition.

•You MUST use the seat belt any time you are operating a forklift/lift truck.

•Drive within the speed limit (usually posted on the machine). Driving too fast can prevent you from stopping quickly enough, and can make the handling of the vehicle unstable.

•Stop as required at intersections. Sound the horn before proceeding around blind corners.

•If you can’t see around a load, you must us a signal person to assist you, especially if you drive backwards on the forklift.

•Most forklifts are designed as one-person vehicles. Do not pick up passengers. They are often the victims of serious incidents when they fall off the forklift or are crushed by loads.

•Never allow anyone to walk under the raised forks or load, and never leave a load suspended in the air without being at the controls.

•Be aware of the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning around gasoline or diesel powered forklift/lift trucks. Proper maintenance of engines and adequate ventilation of work areas will help to prevent carbon monoxide accumulations.

•Follow all precautions for the safe re-fueling of forklift/lift trucks. Keep in mind that gasoline / propane fuels and battery-charging devices can potentially cause fires and / or explosions.

•When traveling up and down an incline with a loaded forklift, keep the load uphill from you. Travel slowly on ramps.

•Keep your head, hands and feet inside the operator’s compartment. Never reach through the uprights.

•Look before you back up.

•Keep the load low. Stop before you raise the load.

•Be aware of maximum height clearances. Loads can be knocked off by overhead obstructions.

•Watch for slippery surfaces, potholes and other hazards. Use the correct forklift for the surface on which you will be traveling. If a forklift is designed for indoor travel on smooth surfaces, it is hazardous to use it on rough, outdoor terrain.

Forklift/lift truck safety involves everyone. You must be properly trained and authorized before attempting to drive either of these type of units. Watch out for forklift/lift trucks and their loads if you are on foot.