5 Safety Devices That Must Be Checked on Nalift Articulated Forklifts
Narrow aisle forklifts are essential to most material handling operations, but they can pose a great danger to employees. According to data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, there have been many forklift-related accidents in recent years. Regularly check the five safety devices on narrow aisle articulated forklifts to keep the injury rate low and the workplace safer.
1. Brake
The brake is the most important safety function in any motor vehicles. If the brakes fail, accidents are inevitable.
At the beginning of the work, the law requires the operator to complete a comprehensive safety inspection. The operator should test the function of the brakes and brake lights. If the brakes, brake pads or brake lights do not work, the forklift should not be used until it is repaired, inspected again, and passed.
2. Seat belt
According to an explanation letter published on the website of the US Department of Labor, all powered industrial lift trucks manufactured after 1992 must have some kind of restraint system or housing. Rollover is one of the most common types of forklift accidents, and seat belts keep operators safe during these accidents. They recommends that if the forklift being driven starts to tilt, the operator should wear a seat belt, hold it firmly and stay away from the point of impact. Therefore, in order for the seat belt to achieve this important purpose, it must be inspected and repaired like any other asset in the facility.
3. Overhead guard
The overhead guard and safety helmet can protect the operator from falling cargo. If a full load of cargo falls on the overhead guard, the overhead guard may not be able to support the falling cargo. Therefore, the operator should still wear a safety helmet and other Appropriate personal protective equipment. However, if dents, broken welds, missing bolts or other damage are found during the daily inspection of the guards, the forklift should be stopped and repaired before use.
4. Lighting
The lights on the forklift convey important messages to others in the area. In addition to brake lights and headlights, forklift safety lights may include:
· Directional lights.
· Flashing warning lights.
· Blue safety light.
5. Horn
Where appropriate, noise can be a safety tool, and operators should use horns, whistles, gongs or other sound-producing devices correctly." Any of these options can remind people in the area about the location and movement of the forklift. Drivers should also honked their horns at blind corners or intersections with limited visibility. The standby warning when the truck is driving in the reverse direction can also let workers know the direction of the forklift. When these safety devices and other equipment (personal protective equipment, fire extinguishers, etc.) are available When properly maintained, accidents are much less likely.
