Our workplace is full of hazards, hazards that can hurt or kill us. Controlling these hazards and preventing injuries is the purpose of the County Safety and Health Program. One hazard in many industrial workplaces is the unsafe operation of powered industrial trucks, commonly called forklifts or lift trucks. Ensuring that drivers operate forklifts in a safe manner can prevent injuries and save lives. Forklift operators must be properly trained and if an employee is not trained, they should not be behind the wheel of a forklift.

Forklift - Follow Rules

Training

Forklift training in the State of California must consist of a combination of formal instruction, practical training, and evaluation of the operator's performance in the workplace.  Training shall be provided by an instructor certified in the equipment type to be used.

Each operator must successfully demonstrate completion of training and evaluation prior to using a forklift.  For assistance with forklift training and certification, departments should contact the Risk Management Division or the County Safety Officer.   

 

Pre-Operational Inspection

Drivers shall check the vehicle at the beginning of each shift or prior to use, and if it is found to be unsafe, the matter shall be reported immediately to a supervisor.  The vehicle shall not be put in service again until it has been made safe and has been thoroughly inspected.

During an inspection, attention shall be given to the proper functioning of tires, horn, lights, battery, controller, brakes, steering mechanism, cooling system, and the lift system for forklifts which includes forks, chains, cables, and limit switches. 

Inspections should be documented using an adequate Equipment Inspection format and filed in department records.  

 

Postings

 

Resources and References