11 Safety Tips on Operating a Forklift

11 Forklift Safety Tips 

The forklift is also called a lift truck, is one of the most commonly used pieces of equipment at the worksite. These powered industrial trucks are used to lift and transport loads with deft and precision. But just because they are common does not mean they are simple. With thousands of forklifts in Singapore estimated to be in operation, it is mandatory to ensure workers are trained on proper safety measures to be implemented prior to work.

Below are some simple safety tips to follow to ensure the safe operation of forklifts. Although these tips are simple and quite basic, they are a good starting point to support workplace health and safety guidelines.

Learn the Rental Tips to Choose the Right Forklift.

1. Get Forklift Certification

• Since many accidents are due to poor training, it is recommended that only those who have been trained and licensed in accordance with OSHA & WSH standards be responsible for operating a forklift. Employers should evaluate their employees’ performance at least once every three years and supplement training with proper lectures, videos, training, and demonstrations.

2. Wear Proper PPE Attire

• It needs to be ensured that operators wear the appropriate safety work wear; usually consisting of a hard hat, safety shoes, and hi-visibility jackets.
• The workwear must be reasonably fitted as any loose clothing can get caught on machinery.
• Don does not operate/hold any of the controls when your hands have grease on them; it may cause them to slide off and cause an accident.

3. Examine Forklift Equipment Before Use

• Operators should do a routine check of the equipment before driving them. Some things you should check for any faults are brakes, steering, controls, warning devices, mast, and tires.
• If there are any noted damages or problems management should be notified and the forklift should not be operated if it needs to be repaired.
• Always consider the ‘journey’s end of a load before picking it up. A convenient position of a load from pick up may not be convenient for stacking.

4. Inspect the Equipment Daily

Forklifts should be thoroughly inspected before every use. Daily checks with the shift supervisor are recommended to identify and log any problems or defects. Any equipment that requires repair should never be operated. Some of the recommended checks include:

• Test operating controls such as brakes, lights, horn, and steering wheel
• Check mast and overhead guard for damage
• Examine tire and fluid levels (hydraulic, brake, engine, fuel, and coolant)
• Check for water, oil, or radiator leaks
• Ensure the forks are in good condition (e.g. straight, no cracks, no distortion)
• Look for potential hazards

5. Consider the Surrounding Environment

• Whilst operating a forklift you must pay attention and follow any worksite rules and guidelines.
• The operator must only drive the equipment in the machinery’s designated roadways.
• Observe all signs, especially those on maximum permitted floor loadings and clearance heights.
• Be aware of the height of the load, mast, and overhead guard of the forklift when

6. Maintain Equipment Capacity and Not Overloaded

Be aware of the capacity of your forklift and any attachments used. Avoid hauling weight that exceeds the counterweight of the forklift. Overloading a forklift can cause the rear wheels to rise off the ground and the whole machine to fall over, causing injury to personnel and damage to the equipment and materials.

• Do not use the tip of the forks as a lever to raise a heavy load.
• Do not push a load with the tip of the forks.
• Know the capacity of your forklift and any attachments being used and never exceed this capacity.
• An overload can cause the rear tires to be raised off the ground and may cause the forklift to tip over.

7. Pay Attention to the Forklift’s Stability

Before using a forklift, make sure your hands and shoes are completely dry and sit in a comfortable position with all the controls within reach. In addition to seating yourself securely, take the following steps before operating the forklift to increase your safety.

Each forklift has a center of gravity – the point where the weight has equal concentration – that it shares with the load it carries. Forklifts are built on a three-point suspension system, called the “ stability triangle” that operators must stay within to prevent it from tipping over. The heavier the load, the further out the center of gravity is from the load center, decreasing your forklift’s lifting capacity.

8. Move at the Appropriate Speed

Drive your forklift within the designated speed limits. It is important to not stop, turn, change directions suddenly, or move fast when making sharp turns, as these actions can cause the forklift to tip over. If your forklift starts to dip, do not try to jump clear of the machine. It is recommended to stay in the vehicle, gripping the wheel, and bracing your feet.

• Never proceed past the speed limit.
• Take corners and any turns slowly to minimize the risk of tipping.
• Make any changes in direction or any stops gradually and slowly.

9. Avoid Hazardous Areas of the Equipment

Avoid standing or walking under a load, lifting mechanism, or forklift attachment, as loads can fall off on anyone positioned below it. Keep hands and feet clear away from the forklift mast, as a moving mast can cause serious injury.

• Steer clear of any bumps or uneven ground surfaces along with slippery conditions.
• Steer clear of loose ground objects which could cause loss of control over the equipment or a load to move around.
• Use the horn when closing in on a corner or doorway/entrance and around people to alert pedestrians or other forklift operators of your whereabouts to avoid any unnecessary collision.
• Keep a safe distance from other trucks in case they move in an unpredictable manner.
• Make sure that you always have enough space to stop safely.

10. Refuel and Recharge the Forklift

It is important to keep equipment fully charged and fueled. Be sure to recharge and refuel in specially designated locations, which are usually well-ventilated and flame-free areas. Be diligent in switching off the equipment every time it’s being refueled.

• A forklift should only be refueled at specially designated locations.
• Switch off the forklift.
• For IC engine forklifts, no open flame or sparks are permitted, and refueling should take place in a well-ventilated area.

11. Park the Forklift at the End of the Shift

At the end of the shift, be sure to always park the equipment in the designated and authorized areas. The construction company should make sure the parking areas do not block pathways or obstruct any exits or entrances. Fully lower the forks until they fit the floor, apply the parking brake, turn off the engine, and remove the key from the ignition.

• After use ensure the forklift is parked in a designated or authorized area.
• Fully lower the forks to the floor and apply the parking brake.
• Turn the forklift “off” and remove the key.
• Do not leave a forklift running whilst unattended.

These 11 safety tips above mentioned are significant to be considered and implemented when operating forklifts and can help prevent injuries, accidents, damage, and liability concerns.

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