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Discover a comprehensive guide to occupational safety when using forklifts. This document provides regulations, preventive measures, and practical instructions to ensure maximum safety when operating forklifts in the workplace. Learn how to minimize risks and protect yourself and your colleagues while working with this important tool.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATUS OF SAFETY WORK RELATED TO FORKLIFTS

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some Occupational Accidents While Operating Forklifts

Operating forklifts requires great care and high professional skill from the operator. Although many safety measures have been designed to minimize risks, many accidents still occur during forklift use. Below are some typical cases:

Collision with unseen obstacles: In some cases, the operator may not see obstacles such as high-stacked goods, blind corners, or pedestrians. This leads to unwanted collisions, which can cause injury to the operator or those around them.
Goods falling from the forklift: Another common accident is goods falling from the forklift because they were not lifted securely or because the wrong lifting method was chosen. This can not only cause physical loss but also create a safety hazard for workers.
Forklift tipping over: An imbalance or improper operation can lead to the forklift tipping over. This can happen when overloading or moving at excessive speeds, especially on uneven or sloping surfaces.
Entering restricted areas: The operator may not realize when they are approaching a restricted or confined space. This can lead to collisions or the forklift getting stuck in narrow areas, endangering both the operator and those around them.
Improper use of the vehicle: Negligence in the use or maintenance of the forklift can lead to technical problems such as mechanical failure or brake system failure, causing unexpected accidents during operation.

These accidents are a testament to the importance of adhering to safety rules and proper training for forklift operators. At the same time, regular maintenance and inspection of work vehicles also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of accidents in the workplace.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN OPERATING FORKLIFTS

I. Introduction

A. Overview of the importance of occupational safety when operating forklifts

Occupational safety when operating forklifts is not just an important factor but also an extremely necessary requirement in the workplace. Adhering to safety rules not only protects the operator but also everyone around and the company’s assets. Understanding and complying with safety regulations not only helps minimize the risk of accidents but also increases work efficiency.

A minor accident can lead to severe consequences for the health and life of workers, as well as cause loss of time and property for the business. Investing in safety training and forklift maintenance are both worthwhile investments, helping to reduce accident risks and enhance work performance.

Furthermore, promoting a culture of safe work is not only the responsibility of individuals but also of the entire organization. Management’s commitment to promoting occupational safety not only creates a safe working environment but also fosters employee satisfaction and commitment.

Overall, occupational safety is not just an important factor but also a responsibility for every member in the workplace. Implementing safety measures is an indispensable part to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.

B. Important safety protocols and regulations when operating forklifts

To ensure safety when operating forklifts, operators need to adhere to specific safety protocols and regulations. First, ensuring that the operator is trained and has the appropriate certification is extremely important. Training provides knowledge on how to use and operate a forklift safely, including inspection and maintenance.

Another important regulation is to always adhere to a safe speed and be alert when moving. Operators need to maintain a slow and careful speed when moving on uneven surfaces or when going around blind corners. Using the horn and signal lights is also an important part of ensuring traffic safety in the work area.

In addition, maintaining a safe distance from obstacles and other personnel is also very important. Operators must always be observant and avoid collisions with unseen obstacles, especially in crowded and busy areas.

II. Components and Functions of a Forklift

A. The different components of a forklift

Chassis: The basic frame of the forklift, supporting and protecting the various other parts of the vehicle. The chassis is usually made of sturdy steel to withstand the load and pressures of operation.
Lifting and positioning system: Includes the forks and the mechanical or hydraulic system for lifting and holding goods. The forks are usually made of sturdy steel and can be adjusted to fit the size and weight of the goods.
Engine: The central part of the forklift, providing the necessary power to move and lift goods. The engine can be diesel, gasoline, or electric, depending on the type of forklift and the specific application.
Steering and control system: Includes the steering wheel, accelerator pedal, levers, and other controls to steer and navigate the forklift. The steering and control system must be designed to provide optimal flexibility and control for the operator.
Braking system: Ensures safety during stopping and holding a position. The braking system usually includes mechanical or hydraulic brakes, working in conjunction with the steering system to control and stop the vehicle safely and effectively.

B. Structure and operating principle of a forklift

Forklifts have a complex structure but operate on a simple principle. First, the forklift is designed with a sturdy frame to bear loads and protect other components. The lifting system of the vehicle includes forks attached to a moving part, usually a hydraulic or mechanical system, which helps to lift and hold goods securely.

The engine is the heart of the forklift, providing the necessary power to move and lift loads. Common engine types include diesel, gasoline, or electric, with each type having its own advantages and disadvantages.

The steering and control system helps the operator to control and navigate the forklift accurately. Including the steering wheel, accelerator pedal, levers, and other controls, this system needs to be designed to provide optimal flexibility and control.

The braking system is an important part to ensure safety during operation. Mechanical or hydraulic brakes work together with the steering system to control and stop the vehicle safely and effectively.

C. Applications in the manufacturing and warehouse industries for forklifts

Forklifts play an important role in the manufacturing industry and warehouse management, ensuring that the transportation and storage of goods occur efficiently and quickly. In the manufacturing industry, forklifts are often used to move raw materials, finished products, and components from production sites to storage or shipping areas.

In a warehouse environment, forklifts are an indispensable tool for loading, unloading, storing, and moving goods. Types of forklifts such as electric forklifts, diesel forklifts, or gas forklifts are used depending on the specific requirements of the warehouse.

Specifically, forklifts can be used to:

Lift and move pallets of goods to and from storage racks.
Load and unload goods from containers or trucks into the warehouse.
Arrange and organize goods in the warehouse to optimize storage space.
Transport goods from the production area to the final packaging or storage areas.

With the ability to increase efficiency and reduce working time, forklifts play an important role in optimizing production processes and warehouse management, helping businesses save costs and increase productivity.

D. Risks associated with operating forklifts

Operating forklifts presents many risks to the operator, surrounding personnel, and property. One of the main risks is collision accidents, where the forklift hits an unseen obstacle or another employee. Imbalance and tipping are also common risks, especially when moving on uneven surfaces or when overloaded.

Mechanical or electronic failures can also lead to dangerous situations when operating a forklift. If the braking system, steering system, or lifting system does not function correctly, the risk of an accident increases significantly.

Another risk is the improper use or violation of safety rules when operating a forklift. Operators need to comply with safety regulations, but if not done correctly, it can lead to accidents or injuries to themselves and those around them.

Finally, unsafe distances from obstacles, lack of information about the work environment, and a lack of understanding of the forklift’s operation are also risk factors during operation. To minimize these risks, proper training and adherence to safety rules are very important when operating a forklift.

III. Safety Inspection and Maintenance Before Operating a Forklift

A. Pre-operation safety inspection for forklifts

Performing a safety inspection before operating a forklift is a crucial step to ensure that the vehicle operates safely and efficiently. First, the operator needs to check for any signs of damage or defects on the vehicle, including the braking system, steering system, and lifting system. Checking the braking system to ensure it works correctly and effectively is very important to minimize the risk of accidents.

Next, the operator needs to check the tire pressure and condition. Under-inflated or damaged tires can reduce control and safety during operation. Checking the forks and other parts of the vehicle to ensure they are not leaking or damaged is also an important part of the inspection process.

In addition, ensuring that all switches and lights are working correctly is also an important part of the safety check. Switches such as the horn and signal lights must function correctly to provide warnings and signals to the operator and surrounding personnel.

B. Guide to periodic maintenance of forklifts

Periodic maintenance is an important part of maintaining the performance and safety of a forklift. First, the manager or operator needs to perform a general check before using the vehicle, including checking the engine oil, transmission oil, and hydraulic fluid. Checking and adding oil when necessary is very important to ensure the system operates smoothly and effectively.

Then, checking and maintaining the braking system is an indispensable part of the maintenance process. Ensure that all four wheels have properly functioning brakes and check the thickness of the brake pads to ensure safety when stopping.

Checking the steering and suspension systems is also an important part of periodic maintenance. Ensure that the steering wheel, wheels, and suspension system show no signs of damage and can operate smoothly.

Finally, checking and maintaining the lifting system is important to ensure safety when operating the forklift. Ensure that the forks and hydraulic system operate correctly and show no signs of leaks or damage.

IV. Safe Forklift Operation Procedure

A. Step-by-step guide on the safe forklift operation procedure

Training: First and foremost, ensure that the operator has been fully trained on the use and operation of the forklift. Training provides necessary knowledge about safety, operating techniques, and emergency procedures.
Pre-use inspection: Before starting operation, inspect the forklift to ensure that all systems are functioning correctly, including the braking system, steering system, and lifting system.
Determine the route: Before moving, determine the travel route and check the work area to ensure there are no obstacles or hazards.
Use a seatbelt: When necessary, the operator should use a seatbelt to ensure safety while driving the forklift.
Drive carefully: When driving, adjust your speed and carefully observe the surrounding environment. Avoid abrupt driving maneuvers and ensure you always keep your eyes on the path.
Adhere to safety rules: Always adhere to safety rules when operating a forklift, including maintaining a safe distance from obstacles and other people, not exceeding the safe load capacity, and not using a mobile phone while driving.
Periodic maintenance: Finally, perform periodic maintenance on the forklift to ensure that it operates safely and effectively in the work environment.

B. Emergency handling measures and incident response mechanisms when operating forklifts

When an incident occurs while operating a forklift, emergency handling measures and response mechanisms are very important to ensure the safety of the operator and surrounding personnel. First, the operator needs to stop the vehicle immediately and ensure that it does not pose further danger to anyone.

Then, clearly define the scope and situation of the incident. Determine the cause of the incident and assess the level of danger. If possible, try to resolve the incident safely, but if not, the operator needs to inform the manager or the company’s safety department.

In case the incident threatens someone’s health or life, the operator needs to notify the fire department or ambulance immediately and provide the necessary information about the location and condition of the incident.

In addition, after the incident has been handled, it is necessary to conduct an investigation and analyze the cause to prevent recurrence and improve operating procedures in the future. At the same time, it is necessary to make a report on the incident to record and learn from that experience.

V. Risk Assessment and Hazard Management in Forklift Operation

A. Identifying potential risks and hazards in forklift operation

During forklift operation, identifying and dealing with potential risks and hazards is very important to ensure the safety of the operator and surrounding personnel. Some common potential risks and hazards include:

Risk of collision: Forklifts often move in complex work environments with many obstacles and people working around. Therefore, the risk of collision with objects, equipment, or other people is very high.
Loss of balance and tipping over: Moving an overloaded or unbalanced load can lead to loss of balance and tipping over, endangering the operator and other personnel.
System failure: Malfunction or improper operation of systems such as brakes, steering, and lifting can lead to dangerous situations during operation.
Lack of knowledge and training: Operators must have adequate knowledge and training on the use and operation of forklifts to recognize and respond to risks and hazards.

To minimize these potential risks and hazards, it is necessary to establish and maintain safety procedures, ensure adequate training for operators, and perform regular inspections and maintenance on forklifts. At the same time, promoting safety awareness and proactivity in identifying and dealing with risks is also very important.

B. Effective hazard prevention strategies for forklift operation

1. Regular inspection and maintenance of forklifts for safe operation

Performing regular inspections and maintenance is an important part of ensuring safety when operating a forklift. First, it is necessary to establish a regular maintenance schedule based on the manufacturer’s instructions and safety regulation requirements.

During the inspection, it is necessary to check all important systems and components of the forklift, including the braking system, steering system, lifting system, and electrical system. Ensure that all parts are working properly and there are no signs of damage or wear.

In addition, inspection and maintenance also include replacing necessary parts and replenishing fluids such as engine oil, transmission fluid, hydraulic fluid, and coolant. This regular maintenance helps ensure that the forklift operates smoothly and effectively, reducing the risk of incidents and accidents.

2. Adherence to occupational safety regulations for safe forklift operation

Adhering to occupational safety regulations is an extremely important factor to ensure that forklift operation is conducted safely and effectively. First, operators need to understand and comply with specific safety regulations related to the use of forklifts, including regulations from labor management agencies and instructions from the manufacturer.

An important part of complying with occupational safety regulations is the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This may include wearing a helmet, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes to protect the head, eyes, hands, and feet when operating a forklift.

In addition, implementing safe work procedures, such as maintaining a safe distance from others, not exceeding the specified load capacity, and not using a mobile phone while operating, is also very important.

At the same time, providing proper training and guidance to operators on safety regulations also plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance and implementation of safety measures when operating forklifts.

3. Identifying and marking safe zones for forklift operation

Identifying and marking safe zones is an important part of ensuring safety when operating a forklift. First, it is necessary to identify hazardous areas, such as areas with a lot of movement, obstacles, or areas with a high risk of collision.

Then, it is necessary to clearly mark the safe zones using signs, floor markings, or other means such as barriers or fences. Safe zones need to be clearly and easily recognizable so that operators and surrounding personnel can recognize and avoid them.

In addition, keeping the work area clean and tidy also helps to enhance safety when operating a forklift. Removing unnecessary materials and keeping work areas from being overloaded will minimize the risk of accidents and create a safer working environment.

4. Use of personal protective equipment when operating forklifts

The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is an indispensable part of ensuring safety when operating a forklift. During operation, the operator must ensure that they are wearing all necessary types of PPE to protect their own health and safety.

Some important types of PPE include a helmet to protect the head from falling objects, safety glasses to protect the eyes from dust, chemicals, or heavy objects, gloves to protect the hands from cuts and injuries, and safety shoes to protect the feet from impacts and injuries.

The correct use of PPE not only helps protect the operator’s health but also minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries during work. At the same time, complying with regulations and guidelines on the use of PPE is also very important to create a safe and healthy working environment for all employees.

5. Emergency procedures and response in case of an incident during forklift operation

In the event of an incident during forklift operation, a proper emergency procedure and response is extremely important to ensure the safety of both the operator and the work environment. Upon detecting an incident, the operator should stop the vehicle immediately and report the situation to the manager or safety team.

Next, the condition of the forklift and the surrounding area should be checked to ensure there are no potential hazards. If there is a risk of fire or explosion, a warning should be issued and appropriate fire extinguishing equipment used to control the situation. In the event that the operator or anyone else is injured, first aid should be administered and the medical authorities should be notified immediately.

After the incident has been dealt with, the cause of the incident must be clarified and preventive measures applied to avoid recurrence in the future. At the same time, regular training and coaching for forklift operators is an important factor in raising safety awareness and incident handling skills when needed.

6. Participate in occupational safety courses for forklift operation

Occupational safety and health training is not only a legal requirement but also a commitment to the safety and health of workers. It helps employees recognize and deal with hazards and dangerous situations, thereby minimizing accidents, injuries, or fatalities in their daily work.

The risk of accidents is always present and can happen at any time in the work environment due to the possibility of human error and the unpredictability of all situations. This emphasizes the need for occupational safety training and constant vigilance.

When participating in occupational safety training at An Toan Nam Viet Center, workers will be methodically trained from theory to real-life risk scenarios. Accordingly, there will be measures to identify and prevent occupational accident risks that may occur during work. After the training course, trainees will take occupational safety tests in order to obtain a occupational safety certificate. From there, workers will have a clear understanding of safety knowledge as well as a valid certification for work.

VI. Factors Affecting Occupational Safety in Forklift Operation

A. How weather conditions affect forklift operation

Weather conditions play a crucial role in forklift operation. In adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or strong winds, the operator’s visibility and control can be limited. Rain makes the road surface slippery, especially on concrete surfaces, increasing the risk of losing control and accidents.

Snow and ice are particularly dangerous, and can cause slipping and loss of control. In addition, strong winds can make operation difficult, especially when moving with a heavy load. Weather conditions can also affect the operator’s visibility, reducing their ability to detect obstacles and the risk of collision.

Therefore, in unfavorable weather conditions, preventive measures should be taken such as reducing speed, increasing vigilance, and only operating when conditions are safe. At the same time, ensure the forklift is regularly maintained and fully equipped with safety equipment to minimize the risk of accidents in all weather situations.

B. How the working environment affects forklift operation

The working environment has a significant impact on forklift operation. For example, a noisy working environment can reduce the operator’s concentration, leading to errors and accidents. High temperatures can cause fatigue and loss of concentration, affecting the ability to control the vehicle.

In warehouses with a lot of dust, smoke, or toxic fumes, the operator’s health and their ability to work can be seriously affected. In addition, the working environment can also affect the movement of the forklift. Uneven, narrow, or obstructed floors can make steering the vehicle difficult and dangerous.

Therefore, managing the working environment plays an important role in ensuring safety when operating forklifts. Measures should be taken to reduce noise, control temperature, and provide an effective ventilation system to create a safe and favorable working environment for forklift operation.

C. How the technical condition of the forklift affects forklift operation

The technical condition of the forklift plays a crucial role in safe and effective operation. If the vehicle is not regularly maintained or has technical faults, it can lead to a high risk of accidents. A weak braking system can make stopping the vehicle difficult and dangerous, especially when moving with a heavy load.

Damaged wheels or worn tires can reduce the vehicle’s stability and control, especially on uneven surfaces. In addition, an inefficient lifting system can pose a risk to both the operator and the goods. For electric forklifts, a weak battery can reduce performance and operating time, reducing the vehicle’s efficiency.

Therefore, maintaining and regularly checking the technical condition of the forklift is extremely important. Regular maintenance and timely repair of any technical problems must be carried out to ensure the vehicle operates safely, effectively, and reliably in all situations.

D. How the safety knowledge and skills of the worker affect forklift operation

The safety knowledge and skills of the worker play a crucial role in forklift operation. The operator needs to have a clear understanding of the potential hazards and risks when working with a forklift, including the risk of collision, falling materials, and loss of control of the vehicle. Knowledge of how to use safety equipment such as seat belts, parking brakes, and warning systems is also very important to ensure safety during operation.

In addition, the operator needs to have solid skills in controlling and maneuvering the forklift, especially when moving in confined spaces or with large loads. The skill of observing and assessing the safety situation also plays an important role, helping the operator to detect and prevent the risk of accidents from external factors. Therefore, regular training and coaching on safety knowledge and forklift operation skills are extremely necessary to ensure safety and efficiency in the working environment.

VII. Occupational Safety Training on Safe Forklift Operation Skills

A. Why forklift operators need to be trained in occupational safety

Forklift operators need to be trained in occupational safety for many important reasons. First, occupational safety training provides them with basic knowledge of the potential hazards and risks in the process of operating a forklift, helping them to recognize and assess safety situations accurately.

Second, this training provides the necessary skills to use safety equipment and personal protective measures, from using a seatbelt to knowing how to perform a safety check before operating the vehicle. Third, training helps the operator to understand emergency procedures and response in case of an incident, helping to minimize risks and losses.

Finally, occupational safety training is an opportunity to raise awareness of the responsibility and importance of maintaining a safe working environment, not only for themselves but also for everyone around them. Therefore, occupational safety training for forklift operators is not only mandatory but also a crucial foundation for ensuring safety and efficiency in the working environment.

B. Where to get occupational safety training for forklift operation?

An Toan Nam Viet is a reputable and high-quality occupational safety training center in Vietnam today. With occupational safety training sessions held continuously at production workshops, factories, or construction sites throughout the country (63 provinces in Vietnam).

To ensure the effectiveness of the training, An Toan Nam Viet prepares carefully and meticulously, down to the smallest detail. From preparing tools, equipment, and teaching aids to curriculum, materials, sound, and lighting.

The occupational safety training instructors at An Toan Nam Viet are experts with many years of experience in the field. They even have research projects identifying hazards in all occupations and how to prevent them.

The instructors’ lectures are drawn from practice and conveyed in the most vivid and easy-to-understand way to the workers. These factors help workers feel comfortable during the learning period and absorb the taught knowledge well. Of course, the knowledge conveyed always adheres to Decree 44/2016/ND-CP. From there, they will grasp many measures to prevent hazards and how to protect themselves. At the same time, they will also apply it most appropriately in their actual work.

VIII. The Significance of Occupational Safety in Forklift Operation

A. The importance of maintaining occupational safety in forklift operation

Maintaining occupational safety in forklift operation is extremely important for many reasons. First and foremost, occupational safety is a decisive factor in the survival of workers. Accidents involving forklifts can cause serious injury or even death, affecting the health and morale of workers and their families.

Second, maintaining occupational safety also increases work efficiency and minimizes losses due to downtime. When workers feel safe and protected, they will work more effectively without having to worry about the risk of accidents. Third, maintaining occupational safety increases the company’s reputation and helps to minimize legal risks.

Companies that comply with occupational safety regulations not only make the work environment safer but also reduce the risk of fines and lawsuits. Therefore, maintaining occupational safety in forklift operation is not only a moral responsibility but also a basis for the success and sustainability of the business.

B. Important safety measures to know before operating a forklift

Before operating a forklift, it is extremely important to master safety measures to ensure your own safety and the safety of the work environment.

First, the operator needs to inspect the forklift before each use to ensure that all components are functioning correctly and there is no damage.

Second, the use of a seatbelt and parking brake is essential to prevent the vehicle from moving uncontrollably during work.

Third, the operator needs to have a clear understanding of the maximum load that the vehicle can carry and adhere to these restrictions to avoid the risk of tipping over or losing control.

In addition, knowing how to use the warning system and apply emergency procedures when necessary is also an indispensable part of safety measures. Complete an occupational safety training course to be issued an occupational safety card by the occupational safety training center to strengthen your profile in accordance with regulations when working.

Finally, ensuring that the forklift is operated in safe working conditions and that all occupational safety regulations are complied with also needs to be emphasized. All of these measures need to be mastered before starting to operate a forklift to ensure a safe and effective working environment.