Toolbox Talk: Forklift Safety

Why it matters

Forklift tip-overs and collisions kill and injure many workers. Most involve a pedestrian struck or a driver crushed in a rollover.

Talking points

• Trained and authorized: only trained and evaluated operators may drive a forklift.
• Inspect each shift: check brakes, steering, horn, lights, tires, forks, mast and any leaks. Don't use a defective truck.
• Seat belt on: if a forklift tips, stay in the seat with your belt on and lean away from the fall. Never jump.
• Travel with the load low: carry forks 4 to 6 inches off the ground, with the load tilted back, and slow down for turns and wet floors.
• Watch for pedestrians: sound the horn at corners and doors, look the way you travel, and make eye contact. Pedestrians have the right of way.
• No riders, no lifting people: don't carry passengers or lift anyone unless on an approved platform attached to the forks.

Ask the crew

1. Where do forklifts and people share space here?
2. What did the pre-shift inspection find today?
3. What are our blind spots, and how do we handle them?

Before we start work today: Complete the pre-shift inspection and mark the walkways and crossing points.

Who attended

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Source: OSHA 1910.178: Powered industrial trucks. General safety information only, not legal advice; follow your employer’s program, the manufacturer’s instructions and current regulations. Keep signed sheets with your safety records. FirstDayTraining.com · Todd Allyn Media Inc.