What warehouse safety precautions is your facility taking?

Forklift operators should always be aware of their workplace, including pedestrian traffic. When possible, forklift traffic should be separated from other workers and pedestrians.

Forklift driver responsibilities

• It’s recommended practice to yield right of way to pedestrians.
• When a group of people walk across your planned route you should stop, and wait until the pedestrians pass by.
• You should proceed with caution through any congested area.
• It’s a good idea to do a brief walk-through of your route before operating a forklift. Think of this as being similar to a safety check on your forklift before operating.
• Clear any hazards before going on with your standard driving route.

Reminders for lift truck drivers

• You should always slow down – if not stop – and sound your horn at intersections, corners, and wherever your vision is obstructed.
• You should also use a strobe light, backup alarm, and/or a blue light when traveling in reverse.
• Some high-traffic areas might require a spotter to help guide the driver.
• Always keep a clear view and make eye contact when possible with pedestrians as well as other forklift operators.
• Signal to pedestrians to stand clear.
• Start, stop, travel, steer and brake smoothly.

Reminder for warehouse pedestrians

• Be aware that forklifts do not stop suddenly. They are designed to stop slowly in order to minimize load damage and to maintain stability.
• The best way to avoid a run-in, you should always stand clear of lift trucks in operation.
• Remember, forklift drivers might have limited visibility due to blind spots.
• Never ride on a forklift unless authorized and the forklift is designed for riders.
• Always use pedestrian walkways, or stay to one side of the equipment.
• When possible, you should make eye contact with the forklift driver.

Reminders for warehouse safety managers

• Permanent aisle and passageways are required to be free of obstructions, and should be appropriately marked where mechanical handling equipment is used.
• Consider separating pedestrians from lift trucks by providing the following:
  1. Use pedestrian walkways.
  2. Use permanent railings or other protective barriers.
  3. If pedestrians must use equipment aisles, they must have adequate walking space on at least one side.
  4. If railings or barriers are not available, pedestrian walkway striping can be used.

Other great safety tips for warehouse drivers and pedestrians

• Use convex mirrors at corners and blind intersections
• Post traffic control signs
• Post warehouse speed limits
• Warehouse bollards
• Retractable belts and posts
• Dock lights
• Many warehouse locations require lift truck drivers and pedestrians wear bright reflective safety vests, which increases visibility of both.

If you have any questions or concerns about warehouse safety, please call us at 844-445-1119 . Also, you may email us at store@raymondhandling.com.