Safety in the workplace is paramount for any business, especially when it comes to operating heavy machinery like forklifts. In Australia, forklifts are a common sight in warehouses, factories, and construction sites, but they come with significant risks with more than 250 forklift-related incidents throughout Australia every year. We must look after our team and minimise the risk where possible. Here are the top 10 forklift hazards and practical tips on how to avoid them.
Poorly Trained Operators
A major cause of forklift accidents is inadequate training. Operators must understand how to handle forklifts safely and efficiently.
Solution: Provide comprehensive training programs and regular refresher courses.
Overloading Forklifts
Exceeding the forklift’s load capacity can lead to tipping and loss of control.
Solution: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s load capacity guidelines. Our forklifts come with clear capacity indicators to help maintain safety
Speeding
High speeds can reduce the operator’s ability to react to obstacles and increase the risk of accidents.
Solution: Implement strict speed limits within your facility and use speed limiters if necessary. Our forklifts are designed with adjustable speed settings to enhance control.
Insufficient Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure forklifts are in optimal working condition.
Solution: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance checks. Heli Material Handling Oceania offers maintenance packages to keep your fleet in top shape.
Poor Visibility
Operating in areas with limited visibility can result in collisions and accidents.
Solution: Equip your forklifts with additional mirrors, cameras, and lighting. Our latest models feature advanced visibility enhancements to improve operator awareness.
Inadequate Communication
Lack of clear communication between operators and other workers can lead to dangerous misunderstandings.
Solution: Establish clear hand signals and communication protocols. We recommend using two-way radios and visual signals to keep everyone informed.
Floor Conditions
Slippery, uneven, or cluttered floors can cause forklifts to lose stability.
Solution: Maintain clean and even flooring. Implement regular inspections and immediate clean-ups of spills. Our forklifts have robust tyres designed to handle various surfaces.
Operating in High-Traffic Areas
Areas with heavy pedestrian or vehicle traffic pose a high risk for accidents.
Solution: Designate specific routes and times for forklift operation. Use barriers and signage to keep pedestrians clear of forklift paths. Our equipment includes warning systems to alert nearby workers.
Load Instability
Improperly secured loads can shift during transport, causing accidents.
Solution: Ensure all loads are balanced and secured. Use appropriate attachments for irregularly shaped items. Heli forklifts come with various attachments to handle diverse materials safely.
Fatigue and Distraction
Operator fatigue and distraction can lead to reduced reaction times and increased accident risk.
Solution: Enforce regular breaks and limit shift durations. Encourage a culture of focus and attentiveness. Our ergonomic forklift designs help reduce operator fatigue, promoting a safer work environment.
Promoting a Safer Workplace with Heli Material Handling Oceania
At Heli Material Handling Oceania, we’re committed to helping Australian businesses operate safely and efficiently. By addressing these common forklift hazards, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and create a safer workplace for everyone.
Explore our range of advanced forklifts and safety solutions at www.heliau.com.au. For personalized advice and support, contact our team of experts today. Together, we can build a safer, more productive future for your business.
Stay safe and operate responsibly!