Forklift Safety Tip #31 Physical Limitations And Forklifts
One touchy subject that many companies have to deal with is employing forklift operators with physical limitations. The most common limitation we come across while training and licensing is people who can’t physically turn their head far enough to the side to clearly check behind them before and while reversing.
It might sound silly to most but many people don’t have enough range of movement in their necks to look over both shoulders. Causes of this limitation are usually things like being overweight, old age, previous accidents and injuries.
AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS say operators shall “not have physical disabilities which could impair the safe operation of an industrial truck or endanger the safety of others”
(saa industrial truck code part 2-operation, qualification of operators)
Dealing with this matter and telling an often experienced operator that they can’t operate a forklift unless their limitations are addressed, can definitely be tricky. There are many things that need to be considers to avoid discrimination. Things such as can the persons disability be treated, are there other duties that they can perform without the use of a forklift etc.
Although tricky, it is definitely a subject that needs to be dealt with because a person who can’t clearly check behind them before reversing can’t legally or safely operate a forklift. Many operators hide their disability by using mirrors for reversing. Mirrors are only there to see if a faster vehicle is approaching while driving forwards, not for reversing.
In order to operate safely, drivers need to be able to clearly look behind them and in both blind spots before reversing.
If you have any question relating to this or any other matter, please feel free to call me on 1300 799 112 or email me nathan@ausforklifttraining.com.au
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