Forklift Safety Instructor Outline.DOC

Forklift Safety Instructor Outline 1. Introduction a. Forklifts are commonly used to move materials in industrial settings b. Operation of forklifts by untrained workers and misuse by trained workers frequently results in accidents c. Ask workers if they know of any forklift accidents d. Because of the potential danger, OSHA regulates Forklifts in 29 CFR 1910.178 e. OSHA requires that forklift drivers be trained i. Training must include classroom presentation and hands-on ii. Workers must receive hands-on with each type of forklift they are expected to operate iii. Refresher training must be provide if the company determines you are not operating the forklift safely iv. The company must re-evaluate your ability to operate a forklift at least every three years f. To use a forklift, you must be certified as being trained and authorized to operate the equipment 2. Forklifts Characteristics a. Automobile vs. Forklift i. Many accidents result from drivers treating forklifts as though they handle the same as cars ii. The operating characteristics of a forklift are very different from those of a car iii. Ask students how forklifts differ from cars (1) Steering (a) Forklifts turn much more tightly than cars (b) Cutting the wheel sharply can cause a forklift to turn over, particular when this is done with an elevated load (c) Forklifts steer from the rear (d) When turning, the rear of a forklift tens to swing wide (2) Weight (a) Though usually smaller than cars, forklifts are heavier than cars (b) The additional weight reduces acceleration and increases braking distance (c) The weight of forklifts varies tremendously, depending upon the load (d) Changing weight effects acceleration and braking (3) Stability (a) Forklifts are not as stable as car because they use a three point suspension For safe operation, the center of gravity and center of force must stay within the stability three angle (4) Centers of Gravity and Force (a) The center of gravity changes on a forklif