Restricted forklift applications often overlook lifting at height

Restricted applications often overlook the need for training forklift operators to work at height. Quite often the nature of forklift operations means that this important element of training is overlooked. In smaller warehousing situations a forklift might be provided for the purposes of loading and unloading multi drops from delivery vehicles. In some environments such as machinery installation the majority of forklift operations involve ground level lifting with the occasional requirement to sling machines from the forks. More often than not the need to work at height is never considered.

A recent accident reported by the HSE highlights the importance of training forklift operators to appreciate the additional precautions to be taken by forklift operators when working at height. 2 operators were removing redundant machinery from a mezzanine level. As the forklift driver raised the forks to allow his colleague to attach a sling on the mezzanine

A mezzanine safety gate arrangement

his fork tip caught a bracket on the safety gate. Unaware of the situation he continued to raise the forks until the strain sheared the bracket. The fork shot upwards with such force that it caused a double skull fracture, facial fractures and a fractured eye socket when it hit his colleague.

A training course conducted at an accredited forklift training centre will prepare a forklift operator for the hazards associated with working at height. These hazards are not only the forks: their height and distance from objects in front of the truck but also overhead objects such as cable ducting, pipes and beams as well as the stability issues associated with a forklift with an extended mast.

To ensure that operators are trained in all aspects of safe operation, always use an accredited provider and where site conditions don't permit lifting at height, consider the benefits of sending them off-site to an approved forklift training centre.