Forklift and Pedestrian Safety

Posted on Jan 31, 2017

January’s safety topic is Forklift and Pedestrian Safety. It is important to ensure pedestrian safety around power industrial trucks. At PPC, we not only reinforce our forklift and pedestrians safety policies but we continually educate our team on the importance of being aware of your surroundings at all times.

The below list simply shows a few of the many ways lift truck operators can protect pedestrians and how pedestrians can also protect themselves.

What should lift truck operators do to protect pedestrians?

Use warning devices, such as lights, horns, and back-up alarms.

Slow down, stop, and sound the horn at intersections, corners, and whenever your vision is obstructed.

Do not move the truck if you do not have a clear view of travel. Use a spotter for blind spots.

When possible, make eye contact with pedestrians.

Do not talk or text on a cell phone while operating a lift truck.

How can pedestrians protect themselves?

Never step in front of a lift truck or piece of powered equipment.

Stop and look when approaching a corner before proceeding – look both ways.

Walk on the right side of aisles.

Keep well away from the lift truck and other motorized equipment to avoid getting pinned by the swing.

Never ride as a passenger on a piece of powered equipment.

Never walk or stand under the mast or load of a lift truck.

It is also required for lift truck operators to follow OSHA standards for the use of power industrial trucks.