How To Improve Forklift Safety in Your Warehouse

Forklift safety is essential for the protection and well-being of your warehouse workers. Operating the forklift improperly or failing to follow caution can result in serious injury. If you want to keep your workers safe while working in the warehouse, consider these easy ways to help improve forklift safety.

Consider High-Vis Clothing

Offering your workers high-vis clothing is an excellent way to help improve forklift safety. High-vis vests, for example, offer more visibility, reducing the risk of an operator on the forklift failing to see them during the night in the event of poor lighting. It can also help them spot coworkers from a distance so that they can avoid them on their route.

Offer More In-Depth Training

Another foolproof way to ensure forklift safety in your warehouse is to offer extensive training. Make it a requirement to take refresher or education courses throughout the worker’s employment. Be sure the worker is up to date with OSHA standards and that they understand the importance of practicing safety precautions when operating the machine.

Create Verbal Signals or Cues

Verbal cues may go far with forklift safety. For example, if an operator is turning a corner and cannot see the other side, you should instruct them to yell, “Corner!” to ensure that other workers have enough notice to hear and get out of the way. If your warehouse doesn’t already utilize verbal cues, consider setting up a list of short, one-word phrases that will help workers alert each other to avoid any incident.

Upgrade Forklifts With Cameras

Upgrading your forklifts with cameras is a great way to reduce the risk of accidents and allow operators an easier way to view their surroundings and blind spots.

Operators should be aware of all blind spots and drive forklifts with caution. You should even tell them to operate as if someone’s always standing in their blind spots so that they don’t assume they’re in the clear.

You should emphasize forklift safety throughout the year and have regular practice or training sessions. Be sure to implement these tips to help improve warehouse safety.