Forklift Safety - Drivers and Pedestrians

People work around forklift trucks every day. They can become second nature, and it’s easy to not pay attention to horns or flashing lights. Lift trucks can kill or seriously injure those driving or near a forklift. One mistake can cause a serious injury or worse.

Safe operation of the lift truck is the driver’s responsibility. But everyone must do their part to avoid accidents and to help lift truck drivers who are focusing on the load and truck operation.

Key Practices

• Only trained people can operate forklifts. Operators must have permits with them or on the property at all times. Never allow anyone to operate a forklift who does not have a permit.
• Drivers should not leave forklifts running and unattended. If you see a forklift that is parked and running with no operator, do not approach. Find the driver or the supervisor.
• Don’t forget to always keep all parts of the body within the protective cage when driving. Many people have been injured while driving by an object with their hand or foot hanging outside of the cage.
• Passengers are not allowed to ride on forklifts at any time.
• Never try to walk behind a lift truck that is in reverse or could back up. Drivers might not see or notice your movement. Running into someone or rolling over a foot always results in a devastating injury.
• Lift trucks are different than cars. The rear end of the lift truck swings out when it turns. Always stay far enough away from lift trucks when they are turning.
• Walk in aisles that are marked for people, especially when you are going through doors or around a corner where a forklift driver may not see you.
• Approach blind corners or doorways carefully. While drivers should sound their horn at intersections or where visibility is poor to let you know that they are approaching, they may forget. If you can’t see around a corner, neither can the driver moving toward you.
• Don’t walk near or under a truck carrying a load, especially if it is tipping.
• Manufacturing areas are noisy, and it can be hard to hear approaching lift trucks. Always stay alert for lift trucks and give them plenty of room.
• Drivers can miss close calls or hazards because they are focusing on driving or on the load. If you witness a close call, please report it to a supervisor or safety team member. They can investigate to correct work layout, aisles, or look for other solutions that reduce hazards before accidents occur.