As safety consultants in the automotive industry, we cannot stress enough the importance of proper forklift training and adherence to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.

A tragic reminder of this occurred recently in Wallingford, Connecticut, where a 70-year-old man lost his life in a forklift accident. According to reports, the worker suffered fatal injuries when he was pinned between the forklift and a vehicle. This devastating incident underscores the real and immediate dangers of improper forklift operation. OSHA requires operators to shut off the lift truck and engage the parking brake before dismounting, which the operator failed to do.

OSHA mandates that all forklift operators must be properly trained and certified before operating powered industrial trucks. This is not just a regulatory requirement — it is a matter of life and death. Untrained or improperly trained employees put themselves and those around them at risk of serious injury or even fatal accidents. 

Forklift Safety Training

NHADA-WCT offers OSHA-compliant forklift safety training both online and in person. This training equips operators with the necessary knowledge and skills to safely operate forklifts in the workplace. The training covers essential topics, including:

• Pre-Operation Inspections: Ensuring the forklift is in safe working condition before use. (Forklift Safety Inspection Books are available online and in-store from LotDrop.)
• Load Handling: Proper techniques for lifting, carrying and placing loads.
• Safe Operating Procedures: How to maneuver forklifts safely, including navigating ramps, aisles and loading docks.
• Hazard Awareness: Recognizing and mitigating workplace hazards to prevent accidents.
• Stability and Tip-Over Prevention: Understanding the center of gravity and load balance to avoid tipping incidents.
• Emergency Procedures: How to react in case of an accident or equipment malfunction.

Protect Your Employees and Your Business

Failing to comply with OSHA regulations not only puts lives at risk but can also result in hefty fines and legal consequences for your business. Don’t wait for an accident to happen — prioritize forklift safety and ensure your employees receive the proper training.