Protect Yourself from a Falling Forklift

When operating forklifts within a warehouse, there are many forklift safety considerations operators and nearby pedestrians need to consider. One of the most dangerous locations casualties occur the most often with forklifts is the loading dock. In fact, It is estimated that about 25% of all forklift casualties occur in the loading dock.

One of the most common reasons forklift casualties occur on loading docks is due to the risk of the forklift falling off of the edge.  Because forklifts with loads are extremely unbalanced, this adds to the risk as well.  Therefore, each business needs to make sure they take extra steps in reducing the possibility of a casualty occurring in this location.  Below are some tips each business can take for forklift safety to help reduce the risk of a forklift tragedy occurring on a loading dock.

Educating and Training Forklift Operators and Nearby Pedestrians

One of the first steps in reducing the occurrence of a forklift casualty occurring is to fully train and educate all operators and nearby pedestrians working on the loading dock. While forklift operators that are OSHA certified should be fully aware of the associated risks, each business should still have their own training and ways to help enforce and educate on the importance of having a safe loading dock area.

The training should include educating all forklift operators of the specific associated risks and common accidents that occur on your business’ loading dock. Because each loading dock is unique, each employee should be trained in understanding the specific associated risks each loading dock has. Training should also include hands on training to en sure the operator fully understands how to operate the forklift safely on the loading dock. By taking the extra of making sure everyone needed is properly trained, businesses can help reduce associated casualties from occurring by emphasizing its importance.

Having good Form of Communication

Another essential element in helping reduce a loading dock casualty occurring is ensuring operators and those working on the loading dock have a good method of communication.  This can become extremely important when a business often has multiple forklifts or pedestrians on a loading dock at the same time.  Forklift operators should know when to use their horn and signals to help communicate with those around them on the loading dock.

Add Raised Edges on the loading Dock

One of the most common accidents that occur with forklifts on loading docks is forklift falling off the edge. In any instance where a forklift’s wheel may roll off the edge, you can add raised edges to help keep the forklift from doing so. Some of the most common used edge protection includes undercover dock, finger dock, End protection, as well as removable bollards.

Make sure the driving Surface is Safe

Another major cause of accidents occurring on loading docks is due to having a slippery surface.  This is especially true since loading docks are usually outside and are prone to outdoor weather conditions.  A couple major ways in helping prevent an accident from occurring is making sure the docking surface is not retaining any water when it rains, as well as making sure the area is cleared of ice and snow whenever such conditions exist.