What is the Main Causes of Forklift Accidents?

The main causes of forklift accidents can be classified into three categories: user errors, work environment, and mechanical design. Inadequately trained personnel are accountable for the majority of forklift accidents. OSHA estimates that up to 70% of forklift accidents could be avoided with proper training.

According to the Industrial Truck Association, these are the primary causes behind significant fatal forklift accidents.

Overturning is the leading cause of forklift fatalities. There are numerous factors contributing to forklift overturns, including user errors such as improper turning, elevated loads, turning or stopping too quickly, and environmental factors like unstable surfaces and unclear forklift pathways.

OSHA Regulations for Forklifts

OSHA has established regulations for powered industrial trucks in the Federal Regulations, Title 29 CFR 1910.178, which cover forklifts used in the construction industry in sections 1926.600 and 1926.602. These requirements include operator training, maintenance, and operations.

• Operator Training: Specific training requirements for forklifts, including loading, seat belts, alarms, and truck operations.

• Maintenance: Detailed instructions on the daily pre-use checks of forklifts.

• Operations: Specific guidelines on how to operate a forklift, from safe driving speeds to reducing speed at intersections.

Enhancing Forklift Safety

Purchasing or renting forklifts from reputable and safety-conscious suppliers is a good starting point, but forklift operators are the most crucial component in safe forklift practices. Safety training helps protect operators from injuries and fatalities, liabilities, OSHA fines for non-compliance, resource losses, high insurance costs, high maintenance expenses, and damage to property and products. According to an OSHA study, proper training for forklift operators can reduce accident rates by 30%.

To become a qualified forklift operator, you need to obtain forklift certification from a training program that complies with OSHA policies.

In addition to training, companies can ensure personnel safety by appropriately maintaining forklifts, maintaining clear and unobstructed workplace environments, and fostering a strong safety culture among employees. Addressing these issues helps prevent forklift accidents and improves safe practices in the workplace.