Over the last several decades, I’ve seen many things change in this industry. Some things get easier with new tech. Others get a lot more dangerous. One of the top priorities of a solid Safety Culture is making certain that every person who walks into the facility walks out the same way. We don’t just follow rules for theOne of the top priorities of a solid Safety Culture is keeping everyone in the facility whole. We talk about heavy machines every day. But what about the person on foot? Walking on the floor is often more dangerous than driving. You have people, heavy equipment, and moving loads in the same space. It is a recipe for disaster if we do not have clear rules. Right-of-way is about mutual respect. It is about clear communication. It keeps the flow moving and keeps people from getting hurt. Everyone plays a role here. It is about awareness.

• Standardize your hand signals. This is critical. If a forklift operator sees you, they should signal their path clearly. If you are walking, make eye contact before crossing their path. Use simple hand waves to confirm you see each other. It is fast. It is safe. It stops the guessing games. If you are not sure, do not move. Wait for the signal.
• Use floor tape and physical barriers. These tools guide your movement. Tape is a visual reminder. Barriers are physical walls to keep folks safe. Make sure your lines are bright and clear. If a walkway is marked, stay in it. If a barrier is up, respect it. Never walk over or under a barrier.
• Wear your Hi-Viz apparel. If you are on the floor, you need to be seen. A bright shirt makes you stand out against the warehouse’s dark colors. Do not let your gear get covered by a hoodie or coat. Bright colors save lives.
• Watch for blind spots. Forklifts have massive blind spots. Never assume a driver sees you. Stay back. Wait for a signal. If you cannot see the driver’s eyes, they cannot see you. Stop. Look. Listen. Be predictable.