erial handling equipment, such as forklifts, are essential to efficiently moving goods and materials in warehouses, distribution centers, and other industrial settings. However, forklifts can also be a safety hazard and cause harm to workers and bystanders if used incorrectly!
Patriot Forklifts wants to be your material handling solutions partner and help you increase safety in the workplace! We became one of the top forklift dealers in Denver because we are commit to providing businesses with the tools they need to create safer and more efficient work environments.
Common Hazards Associated with Material Handling Equipment
The most common hazards associated with forklifts include collisions, equipment tipping, and falling objects. While forklifts are prone to tipping, most fatal accidents occur when the load is too heavy, the forklift is traveling too fast or taking a turn too quickly, or when the operator is not paying attention. Most forklift accidents are avoidable and can be prevent by implementing proper safety precautions and regular employee training.
Tips for Safer Material Handling Equipment Use
For a safer workplace, Patriot Forklifts has outlined safety guidelines to follow when operating material handling equipment. Check out these guidelines below for ideas on how to make your operations safer:
Educate Workers on Proper Use
To avoid hazards, all employees who operate or work around material handling equipment should receive regular safety training to ensure that they understand the potential hazards and how to prevent accidents. Forklift operators should also be properly train on how to secure loads, maintain material handling equipment, and follow safety protocols. Safety protocols to implement include using horns to alert others of their presence, using spotters when backing up, and avoiding distractions like cell phones while operating a forklift. In case an injury does occur, it is also recommend to teach workers how to respond to forklift accidents and other warehouse emergencies.
Use Proper Safety Gear
In addition to proper training, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can help prevent injuries and reduce the severity of accidents involving material handling equipment. Safety gear like hard hats and safety goggles should be worn as necessary to protect bystanders and operators.
Properly Maintain Equipment
Forklifts require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. If maintenance is neglect, forklifts can experience mechanical failure and harm the operator. Proper forklift maintenance includes routine maintenance and checking the brakes, steering, tires, and other components for wear or damage before every use.
Keep work areas clean and organized
Cluttered and a disorganized work environment can increase the risk of accidents. Hence, to combat this, employers should establish procedures for keeping work areas clean and free of debris. This can include providing proper storage for tools and materials and establishing procedures for cleaning up spills and debris.
Ensure a Safer Workplace with Patriot Forklifts
The profitability of a business and the safety of its employees depend on having high-quality and reliable equipment. Put your employees first and invest in safe material handling equipment at Patriot Forklifts in Denver, CO. Call (720) 798-0276 for more information or browse our available forklifts online today!