Shop 
Knowledge center Mechanical equipment 9 tips for working safely with a forklift9 tips for working safely with a forklift
Written by Frank Schoenmakers | Last update: 23-6-2021
Driving a forklift you are suddenly forced to swerve. A co-worker accidentally crosses your path, giving you no other choice than to intervene. The quick movement causes the load of the forklift to tip over. Miraculously neither of you gets injured. Situations like these frequently occur. Also often situations occur with a more dramatic ending. That is why in this article we provide 9 tips for working safely with a forklift.
1. Ensure you hold a forklift certificate
It is important that you drive a forklift only when sufficiently instructed. Otherwise there is too high a risk of accidents. Despite the fact that obtaining a forklift certificate is not compulsory, it is recommended to hold one when driving a forklift. By following a training, you learn how to adequately steer a forklift and you learn about the traffic rules and how to recognize hazards.
2. Perform regular maintenance
Little effort, but very important: having maintenance carried out. In order to prevent malfunctions on the vehicle, it is wise to have the forklift inspected every year. Carefully keep to the maintenance schedule and make sure that parts are timely replaced. In addition it is obvious that mirrors, a horn, a safety belt and preferably a safety cage are used.
3. Set clear rules
Are many forklifts used within the company? Then set clear rules for all forklift drivers and other personnel working in the same area. See to it that employees/co-workers observe those rules to ensure safety. For instance (marked) transport and walk ways, traffic rules and rules for sounding the horn when approaching a sharp curve.
4. Carry out a standard check
Before using the forklift, always perform a brief check. Walk around the vehicle and check for damage, loose parts, soft or flat tires and other defects. Be sensible and do not use the forklift when you have identified defects during the check.
5. Wear protective clothing
Another important aspect regarding working safely with a forklift, is protective clothing. Without wearing protective clothing you shouldn't even come near a forklift. Protect your limbs by wearing protective clothing. These could be safety shoes with steel noses, a safety helmet, safety goggles and gloves.
6. Reduce your speed
Always bear in mind pedestrians and possible other forklift users and reduce your speed near cluttered locations and junctions. Also when accelerating or braking it is imperative to reduce your speed and prevent the load of the forklift from tilting.
7. Prevent the forklift from becoming overloaded
Every forklift has a maximum load for a reason. Still, many accidents take place because this is neglected. Never exceed this workload and do not apply any additional weight by giving a co-worker a lift. Only one person is allowed on a forklift when it is moving.
8. See to safety signs
In the operation area - where vehicles are moving - hang enough safety and warning signs. This way visitors and employees will be aware immediately that there are moving vehicles in the area that they must be alert to.
9. Pay attention to the position of the forks
Park the forklift correctly. This requires paying attention to the position of the forks. See to it that it is in lowest position and the vehicle leans slightly forward. This way the forklift is least likely to cause damage. Finally, when leaving the forklift it is important to apply the parking brake and remove the ignition key.