In the fast-paced, high-risk environment of ports and terminals, safety must always come first. As part of the National Maritime Safety Association’s ongoing “Learn and Live” series, we bring you a sobering, real-life lesson on forklift safety. This video covers the tragic story of a longshore worker who lost her life due to a preventable accident involving a forklift. By analyzing what went wrong and the safety protocols that were not followed, we aim to reinforce the importance of proper forklift operation and pedestrian awareness at all times.
A Tragic Accident – What Went Wrong
In this video, the scenario unfolds where a Forklift Operator and Signal Person overlooked critical safety steps, and it resulted in a fatal incident. After lifting two pin bins from a rack, he failed to lower his load, obstructing his view through the cabin. As he sped along the Apron into the Backreach, he tragically struck a longshore worker that had just overseen the placement of a hatch cover.
This accident was preventable, and understanding the sequence of missteps is key to ensuring it doesn’t happen again.
Three Key Takeaways to Prevent Forklift Accidents
Always Maintain a Clear View
- Operating a forklift and working alongside a cargo ship requires constant awareness. One critical error in this incident was the operator’s blocked view.
- On all grades the load on the forklift blades, and the load engaging means, are to be tilted back if applicable, and only raised as far as necessary to clear the road or driving surface.
- If the load remains obstructive, seek the help of a Spotter and, when your forward view is obstructed by the cargo operate in reverse (“cargo trailing”) while maintaining full awareness of your surroundings.
Speed Kills – Keep it Slow and Steady
- The operator’s excessive speed also prevented him from reacting in time despite another Employee calling out for him to stop. Even if he had seen the pedestrian, it is unlikely he could have slowed down to prevent the accident. Always maintain a safe speed when operating equipment, and take additional care when visibility is limited or when working near other personnel.
Stay Alert – Pedestrians and Operators Alike
- Forklift operators and pedestrians share mutual responsibility for worksite safety, and being aware of their surroundings. As an operator, ensure the load is stable and secured on the forklift blades, and always look for pedestrians. For pedestrians, it’s crucial to stay vigilant to work going on around them, do not turn your back to moving equipment or passing traffic, and stay clear of pathways that could be affected by working equipment.
The Bottom Line: Safety Over Speed
The message is clear: completing a task safely is more important than completing a task quickly. Whether you’re operating machinery or working near it, don’t let the urgency of the task compromise your decisions or workplace safety protocols. Following proper forklift operation guidelines, ensuring Employees in a workspace know where fellow Employees are located, and staying aware of your surroundings as they change will have a direct positive effect on workplace safety and save lives.
Information on OSHA’s requirements for Powered Industrial Trucks (P.I.T.) can be found in 29 CFR 1910.178 – Materials Handling and Storage // Powered industrial trucks.
Watch the full video now and ensure these lessons are a part of your daily routine.
The views expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not represent the opinions or endorsements of any organization or entity. Readers should use their own discretion and consider multiple sources of information when forming their own opinions or making decisions.