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Forklift accidents can have severe consequences, resulting in injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. It is crucial to understand the causes of these accidents, implement preventive measures, and prioritise safety in forklift operations.

Causes of Forklift Accidents:

1. Lack of Proper Training: Insufficient training can lead to operators lacking the necessary knowledge and skills to operate forklifts safely, increasing the risk of accidents.
2. Improper Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance and inspections can result in faulty equipment, including brakes, steering systems, and hydraulics, which can contribute to accidents.
3. Speeding and Reckless Driving: Operating a forklift at excessive speeds or in an irresponsible manner can lead to collisions, tip-overs, and loss of control.
4. Improper Load Handling: Incorrectly securing or unbalanced loads can cause instability, making the forklift prone to tipping over or dropping the load.
5. Limited Visibility: Poor lighting conditions, blind spots, obstructed views, and inadequate mirrors can impede the operator’s ability to see obstacles, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Prevention and Safety Tips:

1. Comprehensive Training: Ensure that all forklift operators receive proper training on safe operating practices, including load handling, manoeuvring, and understanding the equipment’s limitations.
2. Regular Maintenance: Establish a maintenance schedule to inspect and service forklifts regularly. Address any identified issues promptly to maintain optimal performance and safety.
3. Speed Control: Encourage operators to adhere to speed limits and discourage reckless driving. Emphasise the importance of maintaining a safe speed, especially in congested areas.
4. Load Handling Procedures: Train operators on proper load securing techniques and weight distribution. Encourage them to double-check loads before moving them and avoid overloading the forklift.
5. Clear Visibility: Improve visibility by installing proper lighting, removing obstructions, and ensuring that mirrors are appropriately adjusted. Consider using aids like Banks people or cameras to assist with blind spots.
6. Establish Safety Policies: Implement strict safety policies, such as wearing seatbelts, prohibiting unauthorised personnel from operating forklifts, and maintaining clear pedestrian areas.
7. Regular Safety Inspections: Conduct routine safety inspections, focusing on the forklift’s condition, safety features, and overall adherence to your company procedures.

Remember, prioritising safety in forklift operations is crucial to prevent accidents, protect employees, and minimise damage to property. By promoting a culture of safety and consistently reinforcing best practices, the risk of forklift accidents can be significantly reduced.

For more information on forklift safety or to schedule forklift training, reach out to Inline Training Ltd at training@inlinetraining.co.uk. Stay safe!

A busy week here at I line training with multiple courses being run for our clients.

Currently we have Abrasive wheels training in Ipswich being completed for a well know producer of farming and agricultural equipment.

We have forklift attachment training courses running for a client in London for their brand new rotating clamp attachment on a counterbalance forklift.

Finally we have a counterbalance novice course running for a client in Ipswich within the automotive industry.

Plenty going on here this week at Inline Training, if you are looking for forklift training in Essex or Suffolk please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information and a free quote.

Inline Training Ltd are please to announce that we will be attending the International Material Handling Exhibition at the NEC Birmingham. Myself and our instructors are looking forward to seeing the latest in forklift truck and safety technology, helping to keep forklift operations both efficient and safe.

As you may be aware, there has been major focus on pedestrian safety within the workplace, particularly when working within close proximity of forklift trucks. For us all at Inline Training Ltd, It will be interesting to see if this focus is maintained from exhibitors and manufacturers of pedestrian safety products and technologies.

At a glance……..

• Course Duration: 1 Day usually 08:30-16:00
• Number of trainees: Maximum of 6 people
• Location: Customer Premises: Onsite Only

This course has been developed to give you the knowledge and skills to operate these machines safely, whilst maintaining yours and others safety within your workplace.

Our instructors will guide you through both theory and practical sessions covering:

• The law surrounding Abrasive Wheels
• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Different types of Abrasive Wheels, precautions and hazards specific to your workplace
• Inspection of equipment, safe transportation and storage
• Components and assembly
• The Ring Test
• Working safely and Best Practice
• Theory Assessment
• Practical Assessment

Please contact us for a FREE no obligation quote today! 01206 413 360