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Forklift injuries change lives and cause disabilities

On Behalf of | Sep 18, 2017 | Workplace Safety

Imagine heading to your job, just like any other day. Today is different, though, because a new employee decided to get on the forklift to move pallets for the manager. The problem is that the employee didn’t have the right training, and he caused the pallets to become unstable. As a result, you suffered a blow to the head because of the items that fell from above.

Forklift injuries may be severe, and they can result in life-changing disabilities. Forklift injuries can include crushing injuries, strains, sprains, lacerations and other serious wounds.

How many forklift injuries are there each year?

Of all 855,900 forklifts in the United States as of 2015, 11 percent of those forklifts were involved in accidents. The number of accidents resulting in minor or moderate injuries each year is 61,800, as of 2015. The number of accidents resulting in serious injuries was reported as 34,900. With approximately 85 fatal injuries yearly, you can see why forklift safety needs to become a priority.

Can forklift training prevent injuries?

Forklift training can prevent injuries. It is estimated that up to 70 percent of all forklift accidents could be avoided if the person driving the forklift or those around the forklift had proper training.

There are other things that can help prevent forklift injuries. For example, it’s vital to maintain the forklift and to perform a safety check each day. If there is rust or wear and tear that affects the functionality of the unit, then it should not be used until it has a full repair.

Forklift injuries are completely avoidable in most situations. Your employer should be sure to train each person who will be in your workplace on safety around forklifts and require forklift training for those who use forklifts in the workplace each day.