If you or your company are involved in a Forklift accident, the result can be very costly not only financially but in human cost too. In the event of an Health and Safety Executive investigation, a business expect potentially large fines, there can be infrastructure and damage costs to consider, as well as costly disruption to the supply chain.
It is important to consider forklift accident prevention on a daily basis, but if the worse does happen being able to prove you and your drivers are competent through training is essential. It may seem a daunting task to tackle workplace compliance, but there is a rough guide you can follow:
Risk Assessments – Risk assessments are imperative for any workplace, but how do yours measure up? Many risk assessments produced are generic and not task specific. This results in the risk not being properly negated and subsequent potential accidents.
Lack of understanding of dangers – It is not just the driver affected when it comes to Forklift accidents. Pedestrians are not always aware of the potential dangers of forklift trucks, this can often be solved simply by training and good supervision
Poor segregation – Segregation is important in reducing risk when it comes to forklift operation. Ensure walkways are properly signed, adequate barriers are in place and that the workforce are aware of the the work layout area before commencing operations
Training – Many lift truck operators are untrained and simply rely on experience, candidates may be experienced in operating a truck by may not be up to date with latest best practice, guidelines and advice available. It is important to ensure that anyone that operatives a forklift truck is kept up to date with training.
Eastern Region Training offer the Novice, Experienced Operator & Refresher training for the counterbalance forklift truck. If you would like to book a course with us, or simply have any further questions, please get in touch with us on 01473 830255.
