Forklift trucks, like all other vehicles, require a decent amount of safety training before independent operation. This ensures that the operator and those around him/her will be safe.
On the Trucks Direct blog, we have covered forklift safety in a number of different articles. See more of our safety articles here or continue reading to find out what a forklift driver should wear.
What Should a Forklift Driver Wear?
Here is our checklist when considering what to wear whilst operating a forklift. It’s safety first, and whilst this is simple guidance, it could prevent an accident or injury in the workplace.
Reasonably Fitted Clothing
Forklift operators should wear reasonably fitted clothing whilst working on a truck. This is because loose clothing has the potential to get trapped in machinery or in the way of their forklift controls. Forklift drivers get in and out of their vehicles regularly. Therefore loose clothing is highly impractical for this job.
Head Protection
This is especially pertinent when working in an enclosed, small environment. The risk of falling objects hitting the head of the operator increases, therefore head protection is needed for safety.
We would suggest a hard hat for the job.
Eye Protection
If you’re operating in a windy or dusty environment, eye protection is already critical. Given that a lot of forklifts operate in these conditions, it’s a smart choice for operators to wear some form of eye protection such as goggles.
Safety Clothing
Safety clothing is perhaps the most important item on this list. Other than a forklift warning system, your reflective safety clothing may be the thing that stops an accident from occurring. Like any reflective clothing, it simply allows you to be more visible to those around you. This clothing also alerts those around you of machinery being used.
The Right Shoes
Safety shoes are commonly used in retail environments and warehouses.
Most forklift drivers will wear steel-toed shoes to help protect their feet from any surrounding hazards. These shoes should also have puncture-proof soles to avoid any hazards from underfoot.
Hand Protection
When handling loads, an operator’s hands are exposed to a whole host of hazards. Whether it’s oil residue or sharp implements, you should always wear hand protection when working around a forklift. We recommend safety gloves, for maximum protection.
Protect Before Operating
We, although not a retailer of forklift safety clothing, know how important it is for operators to be kitted out correctly.
Your safety is important to us, therefore before purchasing or renting any of our forklifts, you should stock up on safety gear.
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