Why Safety Should Be Your Top Priority
When it comes to material handling, nothing matters more than safety – and for warehouse managers and logistics professionals, forklift safety is at the top of the list.
To minimize workplace accidents, protect employees and reduce liability for businesses, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict regulations for forklift operations. Knowing the regulations and putting best practices into action is essential for compliance and overall operational efficiency.
OSHA Compliance for Forklifts and Material Handling
OSHA regulates powered industrial trucks, including forklifts, under 29 CFR 1910.178. These regulations outline safety requirements for forklift design, operation, maintenance and operator training. Key compliance points include:
- Operator Training & Certification – Employers must ensure that all forklift operators complete OSHA-compliant training and receive certification.
- Pre-Operational Inspections – Forklifts must be inspected before each shift to ensure they are in safe working condition.
- Safe Operating Procedures – Employers must enforce proper operating procedures, including speed limits, load handling and pedestrian safety.
- Maintenance and Repair – Routine maintenance must be performed to keep forklifts in safe working order.
- Workplace Hazard Identification – Employers must evaluate workplace hazards, such as uneven surfaces, narrow aisles and potential collision points.
Failure to comply with OSHA forklift safety regulations can lead to significant fines, increased insurance costs and workplace injuries.
Common OSHA Violations and How to Avoid Them
Many businesses unknowingly violate OSHA regulations, leading to serious consequences. Here are the most common forklift safety violations and how to prevent them:
- Failure to Train and Certify Operators – Implement an OSHA-compliant forklift training and certification program.
- Improper Load Handling – Train operators on proper load limits and stability principles.
- Lack of Equipment Inspections – Enforce daily checklists and ensure that issues are promptly addressed.
- Unsafe Driving Practices – Establish speed limits, clear signage and proper traffic flow in warehouse spaces.
- Failure to Maintain Forklifts Properly – Implement a scheduled maintenance program to ensure equipment is safe.
The Role of MHS Lift in Forklift Training
MHS Lift provides comprehensive forklift training and certification programs to help businesses stay compliant and keep employees safe. Our training solutions include:
- OSHA-Certified Instructor-Led Training
- On-Site and Online Training Options
- Customized Safety Programs for different warehouse environments
Investing in proper training not only ensures OSHA compliance but also protects your workforce, reduces downtime and prevents costly accidents. Forklift safety should be a top priority for any warehouse or material handling operation.
MHS Lift is committed to helping businesses stay compliant and operate safely with our forklift training programs and advanced material handling solutions. Contact us today at (877) 647-9320 to learn how we can support your safety initiatives!