S2 Ep68: Warehouse Safety Tips | Episode 68 | Eyes UP Forks DOWN
- Author
- Wes Wyatt
- Published
- Wed 07 Apr 2021
- Episode Link
- https://audioboom.com/channels/5013934-safety-stripes-by-mighty-line-floor-tape-the-best-workplace-safety-podcast-talking-nfpa-ehs
Eyes UP Forks DOWN
On today's Podcast, we'll be covering making sure your being safe while operating Forklifts - so stay tuned.
On today's Podcast, we'll be covering making sure your being safe while operating Forklifts - so stay tuned.
You can find the show notes to each episode, links to the information mentioned on the podcast, the social media platforms we're on, and anything else related to the podcast at WarehouseSafetyTips.com.
If you're a seasoned Podcast Listener - this podcast is going to be different from most you listen to. It's based around exactly what the name implies - Warehouse Safety Tips. And since the people in that industry are busy - we know time is money, so each episode will be as short and to the point as possible.
And now that all that is out of the way - let's get to the Podcast!
And now that all that is out of the way - let's get to the Podcast!
You'll notice the title of our Podcast today is "Eyes UP Forks Down". If you don't know what we mean by forks - we're referring to the forks on a Forklift.
Forklifts (Also referred to as Tow Motors or LIft Trucks) almost always require some sort of training and certification before operating. Or SHOULD. Regardless - here are few tips that'll greatly increase your chances of keeping yourself, your staff, and the equipment you're operating as safe as possible.
- Before even getting on a forklift for the first time within a shift - do a safety check of the vehicle to make sure the wheels are in good condition and free of debris, that there aren't any leaks, that fuel and/or battery power are good, and that everything appears to be in good working order. If something is out of place beyond the battery or fuel - be sure to alert management.
The next two things are the title of the Podcast.
- When we say - keep your eyes up, we mean pay CLOSE attention to your surroundings (Especially Blind Spots).
- Forks down should be interpreted just as it sounds. Unlike operating other machinery - with a forklift, you literally have forks in front of you. Whenever you're not unloading and/or lifting a load - be sure to have your forks as low to the ground as possible to avoid hitting someone and/or something.
- In addition to the forks - much of the time you'll have items ON them. Make sure you're always able to see around the load you're carrying - and have it as secure as possible.
- You should always be mindful of your speed when operating any vehicle - but when you have a load, it's especially important to maintain a safe speed.
- You never want to do a hard brake when carrying a load - as it could fly off your forks and/or shift forward causing damage and/or injury.
- Sound your horn to let everyone know you're coming - and remember to give people on foot the right of way.
- We mentioned checking your wheels to assure they're in good condition and free of debris - and you'll need to do the same for the areas you're driving on. Be sure to watch for wet, slick, and/or debris-covered areas.
- If the vehicle you're on has seat belts and/or harnesses - be sure to wear them. Many injuries sustained by lift truck operators are from being thrown off and/or crushed by the vehicle they're operating.
- Don't travel in areas you're not supposed to be in.
There are probably many other rules you could follow - but these will help you on your way to safely operating Forklifts at your facility.
Before moving on - here's a word from one of our sponsors.
If you've ever been to or worked in a warehouse - you know just how important safety is to both management and staff. It's almost impossible to go 10 steps without seeing Safety Tape, Angles, Signs, and/or products.
It's these items that show us how to be safe and avoid danger in the workplace. And if you're
