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Forklift hazards can be found on safety inspector’s hot lists throughout the world. In an inspection these trucks are in the top five on the checklist. The first item is the current safety sticker followed by policies on safety controls. Drivers of these trucks will be checked for training; then personnel working in the areas of forklift operation. Here are some hazards to consider when developing policies on forklift operation. Accident Hazards Fall of truck operator, due to slip or incautious step, while climbing to or descending from the operator's seat Fall of truck from an upper level to a lower level, due to careless driving, slip or collapse Fall of improperly loaded cargo Overturning of truck due to overload or incorrect positioning of the center of gravity Overturning due to cargo lifting to an excessive height, or due to careless steering Overturning of truck, especially 3-wheel, while making an extremely sharp and speedy turn Overturning due to driving on a too steep slope, or at excessive driving speed, or loss of traction, or due to use of improper equipment or even forklift attachments Rolling-down of truck due to insufficiently applied handbrake Injury from rotating parts of the truck, not fully protected against accidental contact Collision with a stationary, such as a wall or moving object especially when view is obstructed by the loaded cargo Collapse of a stack of cargo Electric shock resulting from contact with overhead electric cables Possible exposure to hazardous chemicals as a result of fall and crush of the loaded cargo Spill of acid during battery charging Physical hazards Exposure to excessive noise levels with resulting hearing impairment Exposure to whole-body vibration caused by rigid construction of truck, inadequate shock-absorbing properties of operator's seat, and prolonged driving on rough grounds Exposure to harsh climatic conditions such as heat while working outdoors Chemical hazards Allergic skin reactions as a result of contact with fuel and/or solvents Eye injury due to splashes of corrosive materials Intoxication by exhaust gases, fuel, which are emitted from the exhaust pipe. The concentration will rise rapidly inside closed and inadequately ventilated structures Exposure to nitrogen oxides (NOX) emitted together with the exhaust gases inside relatively closed and inadequately ventilated structures While charging electric truck batteries, hydrogen gas is giving off Biological hazards Exposure to dust and other contaminants as result of truck movement Ergonomics and Stress Cumulative trauma disorders of hands and arms pains resulting from their overexertion while driving a non-laden truck presenting higher resistance to steering Low-back pain, muscle contraction and other disorders caused by prolonged seating in an inadequate seat Neck pains as a result of frequent back-turning of head and neck stretching during reverse driving and while transporting bulky load obstructing operator's field of vision Vision problems due to prolonged work in insufficient lighting Psychological stress associated with increased risk of accidents involving other vehicles and suddenly appearing pedestrians Psychological problems with time constraints
Article Source: http://blisspublisher.com
Brent Bowlin is a health and safety researcher who has helped businesses in implementing safety programs. For help contact him at abbsafetynet@gmail.com and for safety supplies go to www.safetysuppliescanada.com, they deliver anywhere. Submitted by: Article Submitter
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