Warehouse Safety Tips | Episode 68

Eyes UP Forks DOWN

On today’s Podcast, we’ll be covering making sure you’re being safe while operating Forklifts – so stay tuned.

If you’re a seasoned Podcast Listener – this podcast is going to be different from most you listen to. It’s based around exactly what the name implies – Warehouse Safety Tips. And since the people in that industry are busy – we know time is money, so each episode will be as short and to the point as possible.

And now that all that is out of the way – let’s get to the Podcast!

You’ll notice the title of our Podcast today is “Eyes UP Forks Down”. If you don’t know what we mean by forks – we’re referring to the forks on a Forklift.

Forklifts (Also referred to as Tow Motors or LIft Trucks) almost always require some sort of training and certification before operating. Or SHOULD. Regardless – here are few tips that’ll greatly increase your chances of keeping yourself, your staff, and the equipment you’re operating as safe as possible.

Before even getting on a forklift for the first time within a shift – do a safety check of the vehicle to make sure the wheels are in good condition and free of debris, that there aren’t any leaks, that fuel and/or battery power are good, and that everything appears to be in good working order. If something is out of place beyond the battery or fuel – be sure to alert management.

The next two things are the title of the Podcast.

When we say – keep your eyes up, we mean pay CLOSE attention to your surroundings (Especially Blind Spots).
Forks down should be interpreted just as it sounds. Unlike operating other machinery – with a forklift, you literally have forks in front of you. Whenever you’re not unloading and/or lifting a load – be sure to have your forks as low to the ground as possible to avoid hitting someone and/or something.
In addition to the forks – much of the time you’ll have items ON them. Make sure you’re always able to see around the load you’re carrying – and have it as secure as possible.
You should always be mindful of your speed when operating any vehicle – but when you have a load, it’s especially important to maintain a safe speed.
You never want to do a hard brake when carrying a load – as it could fly off your forks and/or shift forward causing damage and/or injury.
Sound your horn to let everyone know you’re coming – and remember to give people on foot the right of way.
We mentioned checking your wheels to assure they’re in good condition and free of debris – and you’ll need to do the same for the areas you’re driving on. Be sure to watch for wet, slick, and/or debris-covered areas.
If the vehicle you’re on has seat belts and/or harnesses – be sure to wear them. Many injuries sustained by lift truck operators are from being thrown off and/or crushed by the vehicle they’re operating.
Don’t travel in areas you’re not supposed to be in.

There are probably many other rules you could follow – but these will help you on your way to safely operating Forklifts at your facility.

Before moving on – here’s a word from one of our sponsors.

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Thank you for joining us on this episode of Warehouse Safety Tips – and stay safe!

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