Forklift Safety: A Lifesaving Guide
in reverse. All forklifts should have a fire extinguisher on board, especially
those that are gas powered. The warning, directional, and brake light must be
in working order. Mirrors are also used to help the driver maintain a visual on
his surrounding to avoid collisions with other equipment and people.
FORKLIFT OPERATOR TRAINING
Any person who operates a forklift is required, by OSHA to take a training
program set forth by their employer. It is up to the employer to ensure that this
training factors in general safe principles of truck operation, the types of
trucks used, the hazards of the vehicle, and the safety requirements of the
OSHA compliance manual standard. This training must include both formal
instruction in the form of lectures or forklift safety videos and practical
instruction in the form of demonstrations and practical exercises. The
employer has to certify that every operated has gotten the proper training and
must evaluate operators at least one time every three years. The following
content should be included in all beginner training of powered industrial truck
operators unless safety conditions preclude employers from doing so.
Operator Training Topics
• Operating instructions, precautions, and warnings for the specific kinds of
truck the operator will use.
• Automobile and forklift differences.
• Electric motor or engine operations
• Steering
• Maneuvering
• Visibility and visibility restrictions due to loads
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