Forklift Safety Tips, Stay Warm, Stay Dry, Stay Safe

I woke up this morning to the sound of the seasons first big rain storm to hit the Pacific Northwest. It made me think of all the hard working forklift operators and the challenges they confront trying to do their job. It is tough enough trying to safely operate a forklift in the summer months. Look out when the weather tuns fouls and daylight diminishes.

Forklift saftey is a crtical issue for business owners but it is a matter of life and death for the people that work on or around these cirtical pieces of equipment. One of the biggest lift truck hazards is simply being in a hurry to complete a load. Have you ever rushed across a parking lot in a rain storm? Do you think driving a forklift in a the pouring rain, snow and blowing wind is any different?


Hurry up and screw up!

Working in inclement weather can cause you to loose concentration and focus on the job at hand. Smart owners and operator can stay safe by staying comfortable. The following Forklift Safety Tips are simple, inexpensive ways you can protect yourself from the elements and avoid costly mistakes and fines.

Dress properly wearing water/wind proof clothing, gloves and hat. Remember to dress in layers. Visit an  outdoor store and take a look at the latest high tech products. Start with spun polypropylene underwear. If it is good enough for Olympic skiers, it will benefit you. You will stay warm and dry even when you are working up a sweat on a cold day.  Finish your look off with outerware  made of breathable Gortex in a high visibility color. You will find some great options at you local motorcycle shop. Reflective patterns may save your life on a dark morning or evening.




Motorcycle and Forklift Safety...a lot in common.


Consider an affordable forklift cover. Remove that plywood. Get rid of the cardboard wrapped in plastic shrinkwrap. Visibilty and effectiveness is critical. Trust me, when OSHA comes for a visit, they won't be impressed with the home made cover. Dumpster diving to make a forklift roof says a lot about you and your business. OSHA fines will follow if the cover is not clear and blocks the operators view. Avoid those ultra cheap flexible vinyl covers. They are blury to look through and when used as a roof, rain water puddles. Each time you step on the brakes, instant Niagra Falls. Pick a cover design that has ribs and gutters to handle the water. Take a look at Wy'East Products, Inc., ClearCap.com  forklift covers. They are made of a tough polycarbonate that is very clear. The design is simple. very effective and a lot cheaper than a safety fine.




ClearCap Forklift Covers

 They key point here is that with a few simple steps, you can keep comfortable while operating a forlift. By doing so, you will also stay safe and avoid costly mistakes. Work smart, work effectively and above all, work safely.

The Forklift Fanatic