Can We all Just Get Along? Forklifts vs.Pedestrians
Thankfully competitions between forklifts and pedestrians don’t happen every day. But when they do the powerful forklift usually wins, causing serious injury to the pedestrian, even death.
Here are 13 ways things employers, pedestrians and forklift drivers can all do to avoid these unpleasant confrontations.
Employers:
- Separate the pedestrian and forklift traffic by creating designated walkways or travel ways.
- Restrict people from entering areas where the forklift is operating.
- Ensure the area is well lit and the area is clear.
- Do not load the forklift in a way that restricts the driver’s viewing area.
Forklift drivers:
- Limit forklift travel speed.
- Avoid driving forklift near areas where pedestrian traffic is high (for example: lunch rooms, time clocks, entrances/exits).
- Sound the forklift horn at intersections.
- Always expect the unexpected
Pedestrians:
- Keep a safe distance from the forklift whenever possible.
- Always let the driver know you are in the area. Attempt to make eye contact with the driver to ensure they have seen you.
- Be cautious near blind corners, doorways, and narrow aisles.
- Wear high-visibility clothing.
- Do not walk near or under raised forks.
At the end of the day, it really doesn’t matter who is at fault. What matters is. . . at the end of the day, we all get to go home.
Do your part and stay safe!
For more pedestrian safety information you should check out our Danger Zone Pedestrian Safety Video and other forklift safety products in our store.