Forklifts are a very common solution in warehouses and distribution centers. Without them, it would be practically impossible to move large volumes, compromising the process of loading and unloading goods.
The importance of this equipment is indisputable, but we also need to pay attention to the forklift operation safety. That’s why we’ve put together four tips to help you increase safety when using a forklift. Share this content with your coworkers so that everyone remembers that small actions can have a big impact:
4 Essential Safety Tips for Forklift Operations
Before we begin, it is worth remembering that there is a Regulatory Standard specifically aimed at working with forklifts. NR 11 provides guidance on safety in the transportation, movement, storage and handling of materials.
In 2016, this standard was revised and gained new measures. Among them:
- The determination that routine inspections and maintenance be carried out by a trained or qualified professional;
- Definition of specific rules for loading and unloading ornamental rock sheets;
- Definition of parameters and training programs for activity performance.
Managers can use this law to guide them in safety when operating forklifts. Bertolini Storage Systems has put together other tips to enhance safety in warehouses and distribution centers:
1. Use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment
The more security measures are adopted, the risk of accidents is lower. When we talk about the use of forklifts, this involves the mandatory use of seat belts and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
It is the supervisors' responsibility to ensure that professionals use the equipment properly, since NR 6 establishes that... PPE is provided free of charge to perform functions within the company. No activity should begin without all forklift operation safety measures being followed.
2. Perform periodic maintenance
Another important point to ensure safety when operating a forklift is to make sure preventive and periodic maintenance. As the name suggests, it serves to reduce the chances of defects occurring due to wear on parts.
Bertolini Sistemas de Armazenagem's portfolio includes services aimed at ensuring the safety of the company and its employees. These services include general assessments of structures, evaluation of the need to replace structural components, inspection reports, and issuance of Technical Responsibility Notes (ARTs).
Read also: How to avoid accidents in warehouses?
3. Report any defects as soon as possible.
In the rush of everyday life, we sometimes “overlook” signs of wear on machines. However, this is very dangerous and can affect the proper functioning of the forklift. Any sign of defect must be reported. to the superior, so that he can assess the need for maintenance.
Corrective maintenance serves precisely this purpose. It is carried out in emergencies when the forklift needs to be repaired in order to get it back into operation. The sooner the problem is detected, the better.
4. Train your team
As we saw previously, there is a Regulatory Standard that deals with safety in the operation of forklifts and similar equipment, such as cranes, industrial conveyors and transport machines.
All those who operate forklifts need to have technical knowledge and proof, as required by the CLT. Professionals must have completed elementary education, have at least a category B driver's license and take a professional qualification course to become a forklift operator.
But that's not all: the company itself must encourage its employees to undergo refresher courses and training, to remind them of the safety procedures for operating a forklift and how to avoid accidents.
Keep following our blog to learn more safety tips for forklift operations and much more! Bertolini Sistemas de Armazenagem has been in the market since 1984, always committed to developing safe, modern and innovative materials for various market niches and types of stocks and distribution centers.
