how many forklift accidents per year

Forklifts are widely used in various industries like warehouses, factories, and construction sites. However, the use of forklifts is associated with a certain degree of danger. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), forklift accidents cause about 100 fatalities and thousands of injuries each year in the United States. In this article, we will discuss the frequency of forklift accidents per year and the factors contributing to them.

Forklift Accident Statistics

According to the annual report by the Industrial Truck Association (ITA), there are approximately 855,900 forklifts in the US. Forklift accident statistics reveal that every year, approximately 20,000 workers are injured in forklift-related accidents, ranging from minor injuries to fatalities. Furthermore, OSHA reports that approximately 85% of forklift accidents result in serious injuries or fatalities. Over the years, these statistics have remained consistent, indicating a need for better safety consciousness.

Causes of Forklift Accidents

Statistics alone won't tell the whole story of why forklift accidents occur so frequently. There are numerous factors that can result in forklift accidents, such as inadequate training, lack of maintenance, improper use of forklifts, and negligence. Forklift operators must receive extensive training to operate these machines safely. Employers are required by OSHA to provide training on how to operate a forklift and have operators certified before they are allowed to operate a forklift. Negligence, such as speeding, overloading, or tilt control issues, can also contribute to forklift accidents.

Preventing Forklift Accidents

A common proactive approach to avoid accidents involving forklifts is safety training and regular maintenance of the equipment. Employers should create a safe work environment through regular inspections and ensuring equipment is well-maintained. It's also important to make sure employers and their employees are aware of the safety rules and protocols for operating forklifts in the workplace. It's important that forklift operators understand the weight limits of the machine so that they can prevent accidents due to overloading the forklift.

The Bottom Line

In the end, the number of forklift accidents per year can be significantly reduced if employers are aware of the safety guidelines and protocols, and also if employees are properly trained on how to operate a forklift safely. The key to reducing forklift accidents is to develop a culture of safety, where safety is given the top priority over productivity or any other form of work environments. Everyone can play a crucial role in promoting safety and reducing the number of forklift accidents. As the saying goes, \"Safety First.\"