Indiana is a cornerstone of America’s industrial and agricultural sectors. With such a strategic location, it is a hub for distribution and transport. When the load of distribution comes up, there is a requirement for multiple heavy machinery, which can make the work easier.

Forklifts are one of the many handy machineries in warehouses and factories. However, they also pose a real threat to one’s well-being if they are mishandled. Safety in a workplace should be one of the top priorities of any company. Forklift accidents are fairly common. Understanding why these accidents occur can be a good place to start when aiming for a safe work environment.

When accidents happen in a workplace, victims often file a personal injury claim. If you or a loved one has been injured in a forklift accident, you can hire an experienced Indiana forklift accident lawyer and begin the legal steps to receiving the compensation you deserve.

Forklift accidents are common, but they are preventable. Understanding the ways in which these accidents occur is the key to avoiding making common mistakes and reducing risks. This article highlights some reasons why forklift accidents happen and how you can avoid them.

Poor Training

Training is a big step in any job. Training to use a forklift is absolutely crucial. Just as you would never drive a car without driving lessons, forklifts shouldn’t be used without proper training.

Untrained persons might lack crucial safety knowledge. They may not know how to maneuver a forklift with care. Untrained operators are also notoriously bad at handling heavy loads properly.

A basic understanding of the physics of forklifts is essential too. Training also prepares you to inspect your machinery or catch flaws in the machinery before driving it.

Proper training will solve this problem. Training lessons cover everything from theoretical to practical knowledge. They inform you of safety protocols, steps to take in case of a malfunction, and the maintenance it takes to keep the machinery running smoothly.

Reckless Operation

Work days can be hectic. Sometimes, especially in warehouses, there is a rush to complete an order. This could mean that workers are driving the forklifts faster around the warehouse. Given the massive size of forklifts, it can be difficult to navigate and gain control over the machinery.

Although warehouses are enormous and it may seem like there is a lot of room for movement, the opposite is often the truth. Reckless use of such machinery can cause property damage and maim someone.

The only solution to this is to remain calm when you’re driving a forklift. Regardless of the rush in your workplace, if you’re able to maintain a cool head while driving, accidents can be minimized. Companies should prioritize teaching their employees about this crucial step because a lot is at stake if a forklift is operated recklessly.

Overloading

Overloading is a major reason for forklift accidents. Like most machinery, forklifts have a standard weight they can withstand. Pushing the machinery to perform beyond its capability can lead to a malfunction. It can throw off the machine’s center of gravity and cause it to topple. Operators and even pedestrians can be injured seriously if a forklift malfunctions.

It is important to know the exact amount of weight a heavy machinery can handle. Going beyond this can cause serious damage. Remember, multiple trips across the warehouse are worth it if you’re reducing the risk of injuries.

Poor Maintenance

A poorly maintained workplace poses a threat to any employee’s well-being. If rogue items get in the way when someone is driving a forklift, accidents can happen. Machine maintenance is also important.

Heavy machinery like forklifts require regular maintenance and checkups. A poorly maintained forklift can be dangerous. Brakes can fail if they are regularly checked. Brake pads can be worn out. The steering wheel of a forklift can malfunction without proper maintenance. The mechanism that allows forklifts to carry heavy loads can malfunction and cause a serious accident.

Regular checkups on any machine are a good idea. Ensuring the forklift is running smoothly contributes to safety just as much as good training does.

These are only some causes of forklift accidents. These common mistakes are preventable with proper care and attention. Companies are responsible for training their employees, and employees must be responsible when using heavy machinery.