A workplace environment is no less hazardous than a public road. It would be good practice to ban the use of a hand-held phone or similar device while operating a fork lift truck. The only solution is a true Fork Truck Free (FTF) environment in which Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), equipped with sensors to stop immediately to avoid accidents, and pulling industrial carts, like Topper Industrial carts, are implemented. Getting the driver out of the fork truck seat is the only “hands free” environment that matters.
The use of non-integrated working platforms on fork lift trucks requires suitable communication between the operator of the fork lift truck and the persons on the working platform. The method of communication to be used will form part of the risk assessment, but it may be that the use of hands-free mobile phones in these circumstances is considered preferable to shouting, or the use of hand signals.
Safety advocates advise that companies have clear rules regarding personal communication devices, food, and drink when it comes to forklift safety adding that driver distractions lead to thousands of serious forklift accidents every year, sometimes even resulting in fatalities.
Pedestrians and drivers in warehouses are using cell phones and other personal devices which contribute to driver distraction. Drivers are more focused on the personal device than on driving. Answering phones, texting messages, tuning to favorite songs all distract the primary function: safely operating a piece of dangerous equipment.
Having food and beverages on the forklift leads drivers to a casual operating attitude as rationalizing a quick sip of soda will not cause harm. Reaction time is reduced and a simple distraction has just cost someone their life.
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About Topper Industrial
For more than twenty years, Topper Industrial, (www.TopperIndustrial.com) based just outside of Milwaukee, WI, has been a leader in the material handling equipment industry. The company’s product roster features industrial carts, conveyors, lifts, lifts & tilts, shipping racks, containers, casters, and cart components. From mother-daughter carts to quad steer carts to tilt carts and rotate carts, Topper’s material handling solutions make delivering material line side more effective through more efficient practices. Topper Industrial has a team of experienced professional experts able to assess and provide the right product for all material handling equipment requirements.
Topper Industrial is a proud member of MHI. The Topper Industrial client roster includes Anderson Windows, Detroit Diesel, Honda, Kia Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Aramark, Johnson Controls, Whirlpool, and Caterpillar. Follow on Twitter @TopperInd. Call 800-529-0909.
Media Contact
Company Name: Topper Industrial
Contact Person: Jillian Burrow, Marketing Manager
Email: pr@topperindustrial.com
Phone: 262-886-6931
Address:1729 NE Frontage Road
City: Sturtevant
State: Wisconsin
Country: United States
Website: www.topperindustrial.com