FREE TOOLBOX TALKS / FORKLIFT SAFETY
Forklift Safety Video & Toolbox Talk
Forklifts are essential material-handling tools, but improper operation can put operators, pedestrians, equipment, and property at risk. This free forklift safety video reviews important practices employees should understand when working with or around powered industrial trucks.
This forklift safety toolbox talk provides a practical overview of important precautions employees should keep in mind when operating or working around forklifts. It covers fundamental topics such as operator responsibility, equipment inspections, load handling, forklift stability, pedestrian awareness, and safe operation. Use it as a safety refresher or as part of a broader workplace safety discussion.
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Forklift Safety: Key Safety Points
Forklifts are powerful material-handling tools, but unsafe operation can put operators, pedestrians, equipment, and property at risk.
Only Trained Operators Should Operate Forklifts
Forklifts should only be operated by employees who have received the appropriate training and have demonstrated that they can safely operate the equipment they are assigned to use.
Inspect the Forklift Before Use
Check the forklift for conditions that could affect safe operation before putting it into service. Problems involving tires, forks, controls, brakes, steering, warning devices, or other safety-related components should be reported and addressed.
Know the Forklift's Capacity
Never exceed the rated capacity of the forklift. Loads should be stable, properly positioned, and handled in a way that helps maintain the stability of the truck.
Watch for Pedestrians and Workplace Hazards
Maintain a clear view of the direction of travel, control your speed, and watch for pedestrians, intersections, blind corners, loading docks, ramps, and other workplace hazards.
Keep the Load Under Control
Loads should be properly secured and centered whenever possible. Travel with the load positioned appropriately for the equipment and conditions, and avoid sudden movements that could affect forklift stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is allowed to operate a forklift?
Forklifts should only be operated by employees who have been properly trained and evaluated for the type of powered industrial truck they will operate and the conditions in their workplace.
Does watching a forklift safety video certify an employee to operate a forklift?
No. A safety video can be part of the instructional portion of training, but OSHA-required powered industrial truck operator training also includes practical training and an evaluation of the operator’s performance in the workplace.
Should a forklift be inspected before use?
Yes. Operators should examine the forklift before placing it into service and identify conditions that could make the equipment unsafe to operate.
What should an operator consider before lifting a load?
Operators should consider the forklift’s rated capacity, the size and stability of the load, its positioning and center of gravity, and whether the load can be safely transported and placed.
What are some of the biggest forklift hazards?
Common hazards include tip-overs, struck-by incidents involving pedestrians, falling or unstable loads, collisions, and incidents around loading docks, ramps, trailers, and other work areas.
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