5 Ways to Prevent A Forklift from Overturning

Jun 15, 2019

Prevent A Forklift from Overturning

Prevent A Forklift from Overturning. The forklift was invented in 1906 to help the Pennsylvania Railroad handle baggage. Much has changed in the years since, with forklifts becoming more powerful, more capable, and more common. Even though the technology has evolved over the years, the law of gravity remains the same — and with it, forklift injuries and deaths are still all too common. OSHA statistics cite nearly 35,000 serious and 61,000 non-serious injuries per year and an average of 82 deaths due to forklifts, with the most common cause of death being forklift rollovers. Because we keep safety top of mind, Benco Industrial Equipment is taking some time to inform you about preventing forklift rollovers. 

 

Never Travel with a Raised Load

A forklift relies on a very precise (and, all things considered, very small) center of gravity. While there are several things you can do to ensure the safe transport of loads, including an even load that doesn’t exceed the forklift’s operating capacity, many forklift accidents are caused by traveling and turning with a raised load. Keep the load low and your turns slow and steady to ensure safety.

 

Keep Surfaces Clean and Even

Uneven surfaces are another common cause of forklift overturns. While accidents are especially common when you’re operating on an incline (especially if your approach or your load are off-center), there are a number of other hazards that can contribute to a rollover. Potholes, expansion joints, wet floors, oil leaks, and spills can also be significant hazards. These should be addressed before you load or unload.

 

Mind Your Speed

In addition to keeping your load low, be sure to mind your operating speed. Sudden stops and starts can cause the lift truck to jerk, and that can in turn cause your load to shift. Attempting to turn quickly also leads to instability, especially since the three-wheel layout common to most forklifts means you’ve got the deck stacked against you to begin with.

 

Maintain Awareness

Being aware of your surroundings is a good habit to cultivate. It has a number of safety benefits beyond preventing rollovers (securing trailers properly, for instance, prevents roll-offs, another common cause of injuries, fatalities, and property damage). Being able to anticipate hazards before operation means you can address them early to contribute to a safer workplace. Being aware of potential trouble spots — be it low clearance or a tight spot among your warehouse shelving, coworkers in your work area, or countless other issues — means less chance of a quick and panicked reaction that can endanger you or your employees.

 

Train, and Train Some More

Nobody’s born knowing how to use a forklift, or knowing every last hazard that comes with their operation. Proper training is important to ensure safe operation, so make sure that everyone working on or around a forklift is trained — early and often — to ensure safety. Beyond being forklift dealers in St. Louis , Benco Industrial Equipment also offers warehouse and forklift safety training , so contact us today for your warehousing and materials handling needs!

Sanitation In and Around the Warehouse

05 Jul, 2024
A clean and sanitized warehouse is vital for efficient operations, employee safety, and product integrity.

The Crucial Role of Training in Warehouse Equipment Operation

07 Jun, 2024
Operating a warehouse involves more than just storing and moving goods. It is a complex environment with heavy machinery, specialized equipment, and dynamic workflows. Given this complexity, proper training in the use of warehouse equipment is not just beneficial—it is essential. In this blog post, we'll explore why training is crucial for warehouse workers and its positive impacts on safety, efficiency, and overall operations. Safety First: Preventing Accidents and Injuries Safety is the primary reason for thorough training. Warehouses are bustling environments with forklifts, pallet jacks, conveyor belts, and other heavy machinery constantly in use. Without proper training, workers are at a higher risk of accidents, which can range from minor injuries to severe, life-threatening incidents. Training ensures that employees understand how to operate equipment correctly and safely. They learn to recognize potential hazards, such as overloaded forklifts, improperly stacked pallets, or malfunctioning equipment. By adhering to safety protocols, trained workers can prevent accidents that could cause injuries or even fatalities. Moreover, a safety-first approach helps comply with occupational safety regulations, such as those set forth by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), avoiding legal repercussions for the business. Efficiency and Productivity: Maximizing Output Beyond safety, training significantly boosts efficiency and productivity. Skilled workers who know how to use warehouse equipment properly can perform tasks more quickly and accurately. For example, a well-trained forklift operator can maneuver the vehicle efficiently in tight spaces, reducing the time to move goods. Similarly, employees trained to use inventory management software can ensure accurate stock level tracking, leading to better inventory control and less downtime. Training reduces the likelihood of equipment misuse, leading to breakdowns and costly repairs. When employees are knowledgeable about proper maintenance routines and handling procedures, equipment stays in better working condition, further enhancing productivity.

Cool Strategies: Beating the Summer Heat in a Warehouse

08 May, 2024
As the scorching summer sun bears down, warehouses can quickly transform into sweltering ovens, making work uncomfortable and even hazardous. With soaring temperatures, maintaining productivity and employee well-being becomes a significant challenge. However, implementing practical solutions and innovative strategies can keep your warehouse cool and your workforce comfortable, ensuring smooth operations during the hottest months. Optimize Ventilation Proper ventilation is critical to cooling down a warehouse. Ensure strategic positioning of windows, doors, and vents to encourage airflow. Consider installing industrial fans or roof vents to facilitate air movement throughout the space. Additionally, exhaust fans can help expel hot air, creating a more comfortable environment for employees. A well-ventilated warehouse reduces indoor temperatures and helps mitigate humidity levels, further enhancing comfort. Utilize Cool Roofing Materials Traditional roofing materials like asphalt can absorb and retain heat, contributing to higher indoor temperatures. Opting for cool roofing materials, such as reflective coatings or light-colored roofing membranes, can significantly reduce rooftop temperatures by reflecting sunlight rather than absorbing it. This simple adjustment can substantially impact the warehouse's cooling costs and overall comfort. Moreover, cool roofing materials often come with added durability, providing long-term benefits beyond temperature regulation. Invest in Insulation Proper insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures year-round and prevents heat from infiltrating the warehouse during the summer months. Insulating walls, ceilings, and doors can create a barrier against external heat, keeping the warehouse cooler while maintaining consistent temperatures and reducing the strain on cooling systems. Additionally, insulation can contribute to energy efficiency by minimizing heat transfer, ultimately lowering utility bills and environmental impact.
More Posts
Share by: