Top 4 Causes of Forklift Accidents & How to Avoid Them

Safety must be top of mind when operating large equipment in a distribution centre or warehouse. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OHSA) requires businesses and distribution centers to follow certain guidelines and procedures regarding operating forklifts. Appropriately preparing and teaching employees about forklift maintenance and operation will help your warehouse be safer and more productive. Fewer accidents at your warehouse, means increased savings on lost time, equipment damage, repairs, insurance, and employee costs. Here are four common causes of forklift accidents and ways to avoid them:
 

1. Insufficient or Improper Equipment Training 

A forklift driver or an equipment operator needs to be properly trained on operating the machinery as insufficient training can be hazardous for the warehouse. If a driver does not know the basic knowledge of the equipment they are operating, such as lift mechanisms, proper backing, lift capacities of the equipment or how to respond to the constantly changing conditions in a warehouse, it could result in extreme injuries or damages. Without proper equipment training, an operator puts their life in danger and the life of other employees working in the warehouse.
 

2. Faulty/Damaged Equipment

Another common cause for forklift accidents is a faulty or damaged forklift. The best way to reduce the possibility of a faulty forklift or an equipment break down while in operation is to conduct routine maintenance checks. Routine checks do not guarantee that a forklift will not fail while operating or everything will go as planned, but the risk of an equipment failure resulting in an accident is reduced exponentially. Regular maintenance checks also highlight any potential issues that can be corrected to avoid accidents, damages, or injuries.
 

3. Speeding

Although not that common, if a forklift driver is speeding while operating a forklift, it can lead to an accident with devastating results. Speeding affects the operator's reaction time, increasing the risk of an accident in the event of a sudden object or a person appearing in front of the operational forklift and the driver not having enough time to react. Speeding is an easy fix with the proper equipment and operator training. Seasoned operators will be less likely to speed as they understand the risks involved with the improper use of a forklift, but that may not be the case with someone new on the job. Managers must also ensure that all employees follow the proper protocols and procedures of operating heavy equipment to avoid the risk of an accident.

Speeding can also result in a collision between the equipment and people or the warehouse pallet racks. Not only will this damage the equipment but also risk bodily harm to people. This can lead to increased costs to the operation with equipment repairs, maintenance, insurance and compensation.
 

4.Floor Layout or Design

The warehouse floor layout is a huge factor to be considered for workplace safety and efficiency as it directly affects the workers' ability to work productively and in a safe environment. Narrow aisles, low lighting, sharp turns, inadequate floor markings or signage are important factors that can increase the risk of an accident. A good floor plan consists of uncluttered aisles that are easily maneuverable, with good lighting and clear floor markings as well as warning signs for all employees.

A warehouse floor has all the makings of potential hazards to forklift operators and employees alike. However, most of the situations can be avoided with due diligence, maintenance and proper equipment training for all employees. Cervus training programs can enhance your safety, efficiency and confidence on the job. Book your Cervus Equipment Operator Safety Training today and tour our new Indoor Warehouse Training Facility in Saskatoon.