Forklifts are used in many different industries. They perform a range of useful tasks, contribute to a much more efficient workplace and heavily reduce hazardous manual handling. However, forklifts themselves can be dangerous and are one of the most hazardous workplace vehicles. In 2021, SafeWork NSW recorded 598 forklift-related incidents.
The Forklift Safety Checklist Form helps businesses to prevent forklift-related injuries in the workplace. It also allows businesses to record completed safety checks to ensure that they comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations.
This 3 page checklist ensures that:
- the workplace is suitable for the operation of forklifts
- the correct forklifts are selected for the required tasks
- operators are certified or being supervised by an authorised person
- operators have received the necessary training on specific models of forklifts, workplace hazards and safe work procedures
- forklifts are inspected daily
- a proper traffic management plan is in place
- safety procedures are developed and communicated to the relevant people
- instruction, supervision and monitoring are provided, and
- operators are using the forklifts safely.
