Forklift manoeuvring safety is now a priority for many logistics and manufacturing companies. Aside from preventing personnel injuries, safety can also result to massive cost savings.
For instance, fewer collisions will mean fewer delays and lower repair costs. This means continuous workflow for everyone. Another benefit is that operators will be more focused on their work. This could lead to a more productive workplace for everyone.
How do you prevent collisions? How can you ensure the safety of everyone? The key is to taking into account the worst and the most common situations.
Cross aisles and corners
These areas are hotspots for collisions because of lack of visibility. When the operator turns around the corner or in intersections, expect the safety risks to increase there.
To minimise the risks at these blind spots, a warning system should be in place. For example, the Blind Spots Solution from ShockWatch works as a traffic light for incoming forklift trucks. When trucks go into the proximity of traffic light, the light and/or buzzer will be triggered. It will make the operators slow down or stop when there’s an alarm.
Changing directions
Steering and reversing can pose risks to nearby forklifts and pedestrians. The danger is even more apparent in cross aisles and corners.
That’s why it’s often recommended to completely halt the driving when the operator’s about to steer or reverse the forklift. Operators should also give warning signals so other nearby operators and pedestrians will be notified.
One ideal solution for this is the Collision Avoidance System. It cautions another forklift driver if another vehicle is approaching. This is especially valuable when the operator’s reversing (there’s very limited visibility).
Pedestrians
Other workers in the area are also at risk during a normal business operation. Whether the workplace is noisy or quiet, accidents between the forklifts and pedestrians can happen without safety or warning devices in place.
For this, there should be an alert system. Pedestrians will wear electronic tags so the system can detect people in the area. The forklift driver will see the warning light and hear the alarm when a pedestrian is approaching. This gives enough time for the driver to stop or slow down.
Forklift manoeuvring safety Sydney
Ensuring safety is about following procedures, setting high standards and installing reliable safety devices. That’s why here at ShockWatch, we specialise in providing reliable safety systems for companies in different industries.
Contact us today and we’ll provide you with reliable and cost-effective forklift safety solutions.
