The role of the forklift operator is crucial when it comes to ensuring correct and safe operation of a forklift. Having trained and certified operators is a must for business owners, trained and skilled drivers are able to move heavy goods in a fast, steady and careful manner reducing the risk of accident as well as inventory loss while increasing overall productivity. It is also required by OSHA that all operators of forklifts be properly trained. Refresher training for the experienced operator is just as important as first-time training for new employees. Hazard recognition and the assessment of certain complicated worksite areas are also important to note when it comes to operating forklifts as safely as possible.
When observing an operator using material handling equipment is important to address the following:
Business owners play, perhaps, the most important part in seeing to it that safety training at their worksites is a prime concern. Discussing the importance of forklift safety training is a great step, but management should have a specific safety strategy in place tailored to their unique working environment. By implementing a forklift safety program companies can help prevent unavoidable accidents. The key to forklift safety is to be proactive and not reactive.