New Job Require Forklift Operation? 3 Steps To Help You Avoid Injuries During A Tip-Over

If your new job requires you to operate a forklift, make sure you pay attention to the training you'll receive. Those training sessions will help protect you from serious injuries. Statistics show that about 100,000 workers are injured in forklift accidents each year. Proper training procedures can help prevent you from becoming a statistic. In addition to the operational training you'll receive, you'll also need to know what to do in the event of a tip-over -- when forklifts become unstable and tip over. Here are three simple steps you can take to protect yourself from tip-over injuries.

Buckle Up

You might not think much about it, but your seat belt is your first line of defense against injuries. As soon as you sit down behind the wheel of your forklift, buckle up. Make sure that the belt is tightened around you. In the event of a tip-over, a tightened seat belt will keep you in your seat, which will help reduce injuries.

Stay Inside the Forklift

If your forklift tips over, your first instinct may be to jump out. However, that's exactly what you should not do. Trying to jump from the forklift could increase your chances of being injured or worse. When you jump from a forklift as it's tipping, you face a couple of different risks. First, your clothing could get caught, causing you to slam back against the forklift. Second, the forklift could change directions, causing you to get caught under the machine. Protect yourself by remaining inside the cage until the forklift comes to a halt.

Prepare for the Fall

As soon as you know that your forklift is going to tip, you need to prepare yourself for the fall. Proper preparation can help you reduce your risk of injuries. First, place your feet firmly on the floor of the forklift. Second, place both hands on the steering wheel. Third, push into the steering wheel with your hands to press your back into the seat. Finally, hold tight until the forklift stops moving. This will allow you to brace for impact. It will also help keep you inside the cage.

If you're going to be operating a forklift, make sure you follow the safety procedures you'll learn during your training sessions. Be sure to use the tips provided here to protect yourself during a tip-over accident. You can also talk to a company like Crown Equipment about forklifts and forklift safety.

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