Forklifts and aerial lifts are powerful machines — but one mistake can cause them to tip over or crush workers nearby. These accidents are fast, violent, and often deadly.
Why It Matters:
Tip-overs are the leading cause of fatal forklift accidents, and crushing incidents involving aerial lifts often happen to ground workers who aren’t even operating the equipment. These hazards are preventable with proper training, awareness, and enforcement of safe zones.
Key Points:
- Never turn a forklift with the load elevated — it drastically increases the risk of tipping.
- Drive slowly, especially around corners and on uneven surfaces.
- Always wear a seat belt in forklifts. It keeps you in the protective zone if a tip-over happens.
- For aerial lifts, use outriggers and level the base before raising the platform.
- Stay within marked travel paths and away from soft ground, ramps, or slopes unless the equipment is rated for them.
- Keep workers and foot traffic out of equipment swing and operating zones.
- Use spotters when operating in tight spaces or near people.
✅ Safe operation means protecting both the operator and everyone around the machine.
Ask the Crew:
- Are we wearing our seat belts in forklifts?
- Are exclusion zones clearly marked around our lifts and equipment?
