In this issue, we will be covering:
- Feature Article: Four effective ways to monitor forklift safety.
- Product Feature: Safety Equipment & Accessories.
- Upcoming Program Calendar.
- Incident Report: Fatal accident in a hardware store due to lock of training.
- Ask Bob: Our tech guru answers a question about what materials to use for Operator Requalifications.
- A selection of interesting articles.
- New testimonials from our wonderful clients.
But first, check out all the places we are delivering training this month...
Four effective ways to monitor forklift safety
Safety is an ongoing process.
It’s important that all the necessary policies and training schedules are in place, but, once implemented, it’s vital that you don’t stop there.
Any initial good work can soon be undone without a plan to ensure good practice continues over the long term.
As well as a lack of training, the HSE attribute many accidents involving forklifts in the UK to poor supervision.
Routine monitoring ensures that operators continue to work safely, in the way they were taught, and keep bad practice at bay.
However, in a recent study, over 50% of UK businesses we surveyed said they did not carry out regular assessments/monitoring on their operators’ ability in between refreshers, unless prompted by a concern raised.
A reactive approach to safety is dangerous and far more costly, to your people and your business, than taking simple preventative measures.
Proactive monitoring, on the other hand, ensures that complacency and bad habits are not allowed to take root, massively reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on site.
The question is, do those responsible have the time, inclination and the understanding to effectively oversee operating practice?
Here, we explore four methods that managers and supervisors can use to help them monitor successfully and reap the practical and financial benefits of a safer workplace.
1. Walk the floor
The physical presence of a manager or supervisor has multiple benefits in terms of bolstering operational safety.
It’s important to see what’s going on for yourself and to build communication with your team so that conversations around safety can be had.
But your presence also demonstrates that safety is a priority within the business and that you are there to hold people accountable should it not be upheld.
Make time to carry this out in person and use technology to assist (not replace) physical reviews, where possible.
In the UK, although managers don’t need to be certified forklift operators themselves, they must be able to recognize and rectify bad practice amongst their team.
Overloading, speeding, pedestrians in unauthorized areas, poor observations and lack of seat belt use are just a few examples of behaviors that can, and must, be stopped before they contribute towards an accident.
Not only is it important to observe operating practice but, also, who is carrying it out.
Only employees that have been properly trained and authorized to use equipment should be able to access MHE on site for the safety of themselves and those working around them.
2. Make it part of your KPIs
Aspects of monitoring often form part of the established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for a business or individual.
For example, while operators must fill in daily pre-use check documents which will highlight any truck faults or damage, it is then the supervisor’s responsibility to review and verify that these have been completed, to ensure this KPI is being met.
Think about the monitoring activities that need to be done on your site to ensure you meet your targets.
3. Get the most out of your truck data
Some larger operations utilize fleet management software systems which are fitted to all trucks to track usage data such as operational hours, operator ID, speed, and sudden impacts.
With a wealth of telematics data available, analyzing key metrics allows managers to supplement their own physical supervision with additional valuable insight into operator behavior around the clock.
Having the information in this format also makes it easier to spot trends and anomalies, and then address any areas of concern.
4. Have multiple eyes on operations
CCTV can be a very helpful tool to assist in monitoring operating standards, as no one person can be physically across all operational areas, all of the time.
To make the most of this function, be sure to use it proactively as an insight into operational behavior, not just after an accident occurs.
As per the telematics data, it can clearly highlight unsafe practice so that it can be addressed before it causes a problem.
Look out for any complacency and corner-cutting and nip it in the bud.
Supporting managers
Backing up your policies, procedures and training with regular supervision massively reduces risk and is a big step towards a safer workplace for all.
As we’ve seen, a physical presence is key but there are plenty of additional methods you can use to help you, which provide further insight and allow you to build up a more comprehensive picture of operational safety on your site/s.
With a proactive approach, you can identify any additional training needs and prevent accidents from happening in the first place, rather than stopping them from happening again after it’s too late.
For further guidance on operator monitoring and other key supervisory responsibilities, there are specialist accredited training courses available for managers and supervisors which provide all the relevant skills and knowledge needed.
Source: Forklift Action Jun 2022
Product Feature: Safety Equipment & Accessories
Safety equipment & accessories are necessary to make sure your operators stay safe and comfortable on the job.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is an absolute must for all forklift, mobile elevating work platform and loader operators who are responsible for propane and battery handling.
Forklift accessories like weather guards will help protect your forklift operators from the elements
Also check out our IVES promotional gear including neck lanyard with ID holders, carrying cases and hats!
Click to browse or purchase our Safety Equipment & Accessories.
Incident Report: Fatal accident in a hardware store due to lack of training.
The lack of training and supervision played an important role in the death of a worker at Quincaillerie Richelieu, on January 5, in the Saint-Laurent borough in Montreal, concluded an investigation by the Standards Commission, the equity, health and safety at work (CNESST).
On the day of the accident, the worker was busy preparing an order in a warehouse.
He then retrieved merchandise stored on the second level of a pallet rack, using a towing truck and a trailer.
To do this, the worker was standing with one foot on the bottom step of the tow truck ladder and the other foot on top of the trailer. He fell about 1.5m backwards and hit his head on the ground.
Emergency services were called to the scene, but the worker refused to be taken to hospital. The following day, he was found dead in his residence.
“The work method, training and supervision of workers regarding the use of the tractor forklift and its trailer to reach the goods stored on the second level of the pallet rack were deficient,” said the CNESST in a press release.
After the accident, the CNESST prohibited the employer from using the method of order picking which consists of standing on the trailer of the towing truck.
In addition, the CNESST required the employer to train and inform its workers on the safe use of equipment in the company.
It required the employer to apply the methods and techniques to identify, control and eliminate the risk of a worker falling when using this equipment in a situation similar to that of the victim.
The employer complied with these requirements.
Source: OiCanadian
Ask Bob
Free technical support for all IVES Certified Trainers!
Question:
Hello,
I'm going to present a requalification class on the Standard Forklift.
Do I use the Standard Forklift Operator Requalification Training book for my requalification class?
Also, do I use the Final Written Theory Test on Standard Forklift as their final exam?
Thank you!
Answer:
Thanks for checking in with us.
Operator recerts/requalifications: here’s what you need to clear up any confusion.
Download the operator requalification lesson plan LPR-002 (it is available via download from your member Dashboard).
It will cover the requalification procedure step by step.
Yes, you will use the SFL (Standard Forklift) Requalification Study Guides.
One for you to markup and teach from and then enough for your students.
The tests and evaluation forms as well as the certificates and new wallet cards come in the Requalification Notepads.
There is 8 of everything in it so be sure to order 9 Requalification study guides (1 for you).
If you have more than that many to do in the near future, it is easier and more economical to order the Requalification packages (8 of everything mentioned in 1 package).
Bob
Interesting Articles
- Man seriously injured after fall from Skid-Steer...more.
- Florida man attacks woman and crushes her truck with Excavator...more.
- Woman falls to her death from Scissor Lift in work related accident...more.
- Dealership fined $40k after forklift incident ...more.
- Excavator part falls on man, kills him [VIDEO...more.
- OSHA fines store $1.3 Million for safety violations...more.
- Police chase man on foot, while suspect slowly drives Excavator ...more.
Client Testimonials
"I loved organization and lay-out of the program. Instructional techniques was one of my favorite topics!" Julia, Express Standard Forklift Train the Trainer Program.
"Great program! Instructor was one of the best I have ever been trained by. The company has a great program with all the materials & info needed to be successful. " Andrew, Premium Combo Train the Trainer Program.
"The level of engagement was great for an online based meeting.." James, Online Trainer Recertification.
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