Forklifts operate in busy areas, move heavy items, and work close to people. Because of this, safety must always come first. When operators follow safe practices, the chances of accidents drop sharply, productivity improves, and equipment lasts longer. This blog explains the key do’s and don’ts that every forklift operator and workplace team should follow. These points help maintain a safe flow of work and reduce avoidable risks. For equipment support or help choosing the right machines, visit our page for Forklift Sales and Service Dallas: https://dallasforklift.com/
Do’s of Forklift Safety
Complete proper forklift operator training
Only trained and approved operators should use a forklift. Proper training covers driving controls, load limits, turning space, stopping distances, and workplace rules. Operators also learn how to identify blind spots, manage lifting height, and handle loads safely. This foundation helps prevent mistakes that often lead to injuries or equipment damage.
Follow a daily forklift inspection process
A daily inspection is one of the simplest ways to keep forklifts safe. Before each shift, operators should check the brakes, steering, tires, forks, mast, seat belt, warning lights, and fluid levels. These checks help catch issues early, which reduces breakdowns and sudden hazards in the middle of work. For a step-by-step checklist that your team can use daily, visit our guide:
Daily Forklift Inspection Checklist
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Handle loads within rated capacity
Every forklift comes with a capacity plate that shows the safe load limit. Operators should follow this limit at all times. Loads must be balanced, stable, and centered on the forks. Overloading or placing weight incorrectly changes the center of gravity and increases the chance of tipping, dropping loads, or damaging the forklift.
Drive at a safe speed and stay in control
Forklifts must move at steady, controlled speeds. Quick turns, fast acceleration, and sudden stops can cause the forklift to lose balance, especially when carrying heavy loads. Operators should slow down at corners, use the horn in areas with limited visibility, and always watch for pedestrians or obstacles.
Maintain clear visibility at all times
The load should be carried low so the operator can see ahead clearly. If the load blocks the view, driving in reverse is the safer option. Operators should also stop if the path is unclear, crowded, or has objects on the ground. Good visibility helps prevent collisions and unexpected stops.
Follow marked routes and pedestrian rules
Warehouses and worksites usually have marked lanes for forklifts and walkways for pedestrians. Operators should stay within these lanes, avoid shortcuts, and always yield to pedestrians. Keeping distance from edges, loading docks, and storage racks reduces the chance of falls, collisions, or tipping incidents.
Don’ts of Forklift Safety
Do not allow untrained people to operate forklifts
A forklift should never be handled by someone without training. Even experienced workers from other roles cannot operate one safely without proper forklift-specific instruction. Untrained use greatly increases the risk of accidents, equipment damage, and injuries.
Do not use forks to lift or carry people
Forks are designed for loads, not people. Lifting someone directly on the forks is unsafe and can cause serious harm. If personnel need elevation for work, only approved platforms with proper guardrails should be used. These platforms attach securely to the forklift and provide safe stability.
Do not travel with forks raised
Travelling with forks raised shifts the center of gravity higher and makes the forklift unstable, especially when turning or stopping. This increases the chance of tipping. Operators should keep forks low and close to the ground while moving and only raise them when they reach the loading or unloading point.
Do not ignore early signs of equipment trouble
If a forklift makes unusual sounds, struggles to steer, leaks fluids, or shows weak brakes, operators should stop using it immediately. Reporting problems early helps protect workers and prevents small issues from turning into major mechanical failures. Operating faulty equipment sharply increases risks.
Do not use unsafe methods on slopes or loading docks
Slopes and ramps require more control. When moving uphill, the load should always be on the uphill side. When moving downhill, the operator should travel in reverse with the load uphill. This reduces the chance of tipping or losing control. Incorrect handling on slopes is one of the most common causes of forklift accidents.
FAQs on Forklift Safety
What is the most important step before starting a forklift?
The most important step is the daily inspection. Operators must confirm that brakes, steering, forks, mast, lights, and safety devices are working before using the machine. This helps prevent sudden hazards and avoids downtime.
Who is allowed to operate a forklift?
Only trained, tested, and approved operators are allowed to use forklifts. They must also understand the specific equipment and workplace conditions.
Why do forklifts tip over?
Forklifts tip when loads are too heavy, loads are unbalanced, forks are raised during travel, or the operator drives too fast around corners. Uneven floors or sudden movements also increase the risk.
How can workplaces improve pedestrian safety around forklifts?
Workplaces should use marked walkways, mirrors at corners, warning lights, steady speed limits, and clear communication between operators and pedestrians. Operators should slow down and make eye contact with people crossing their path.
Why is travelling with raised forks unsafe?
Raised forks change the balance of the machine and make it unstable. This increases the chance of losing control or tipping sideways, especially when turning or stopping quickly.
Conclusion
Following forklift safety rules helps protect workers, reduce accidents, and keep operations running smoothly. Proper training, daily checks, careful load handling, controlled driving, and clear workplace routes all play a major role in maintaining a safe workplace. If your team needs reliable equipment, maintenance, rentals, or expert support, visit Dallas Forklift to find the right forklifts for your needs.