Designated by the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) as powered industrial trucks, forklifts are typically used to move large, bulky items. Chances are, your warehouse has at least a few of these machines, and they probably make operations much easier.
As one of the leading temporary agencies in Lehigh Valley, PA for warehouse workers and employers, HTSS, Inc. understands the importance of forklifts. Whether you need to lift a pallet of boxes onto a shelf closer to the ceiling than not or move a bulky item from one side of the warehouse to another, using a forklift will allow you to accomplish the task quickly, efficiently and safely — assuming it’s operated correctly.
Practicing Forklift Safety
It’s important to never use a forklift — or allow an employee to operate one — without the proper training. There’s many different types of forklifts, and they all present unique individual risks. For example, a sit-down, counterbalanced high-lift rider truck has a greater chance of being involved in a falling load accident than a motorized hand truck, because the person operating the sit-down machine can lift a much higher load, according to OSHA.
Beyond the type of equipment used, individual hazards associated with every workplace are also a factor. For example, a person might’ve operated a forklift regularly in one warehouse, but after getting a new job, they’ll need to receive thorough training before they’re properly equipped to use this machinery in another setting.
Of course, despite the difference in setting, plenty of common injuries are shared across worksites. OSHA cites some of these as:
- Lift trucks accidentally driven off loading docks.
- Lifts falling between docks and an unsecured trailer.
- Workers struck by a lift truck.
- Employees falling while on elevated pallets and tines.
Making a point to always proceed with caution is the best way to avoid forklift accidents at your warehouse. Shortcuts might save time in the short-term, but they can cause serious accidents. A forklift is a piece of a major machinery, so if a certain action seems even remotely risky, don’t do it.
Whether you’re a job seeker searching for a rewarding warehouse gig or an employer looking to fill openings on your warehouse staff, HTSS, Inc. is here to assist. Contact us today to get started!