Lift Smart: Top Tips to Stay Safe Around Forklifts

June 10th marks National Forklift Safety Day— serves as a vital reminder of the importance of operating forklifts safely and responsibly. Forklifts are powerful tools that keep supply chains moving, warehouses organized, and businesses productive. But when misused or when safety protocols are overlooked, they can also become serious hazards.

At Lift Truck Center, we’re passionate about equipping businesses not only with quality equipment and service but also with the knowledge needed to ensure safety in every operation. In honor of this year’s Forklift Safety Day, we’ve compiled practical, easy-to-follow tips to help both operators and those working nearby stay safe on the job site, warehouse floor, or loading deck.

For Forklift Operators:

1. Inspect Before You Operate
Start every shift with a walk-around inspection (click for an example inspection checklist). Check things such as tires, forks, fluids, brakes, lights, horn, and backup alarms. Document any issues and report them before using the equipment. Regular inspections not only prevent breakdowns – they also help spot early signs of damage that could lead to accidents.

2. Wear Your Seatbelt—Always
It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself in case of a tip-over.

3. Know Your Load Limits
Never operate a forklift without understanding its capacity. Overloading can result in tipping, damage to goods, or injury. Always ensure your load is centered, evenly distributed, and secure before lifting or transporting.

4. Maintain a Clear Line of Sight
Drive in reverse if your load blocks your forward view. Use spotters in blind spots and always keep your eyes scanning your path. Awareness is key to avoiding unexpected obstacles or collisions.

5. Slow Down and Sound Off
Reduce speed around corners and intersections. Always honk your horn to make your presence known when approaching crossways, entryways, or congested areas.

For Pedestrians and Nearby Workers:

1. Stay Alert and Visible
Avoid walking behind or too close to forklifts. Make eye contact with the operator before crossing paths and wear high-visibility clothing whenever possible.

2. Stick to Designated Walkways
Most facilities have clearly marked pedestrian paths. Use them and avoid shortcuts across high-traffic forklift zones.

3. Avoid Distractions
No headphones, phone use, or other distractions when walking through forklift areas. Stay focused and aware of your surroundings, especially in fast-paced environments.

4. Never Assume the Operator Sees You
If you can’t see the operator, chances are they can’t see you. Be cautious, especially around blind spots and intersections, and wait for acknowledgement before crossing a forklift’s path.

5. Respect the Space
Forklifts need room to maneuver. Never crowd them or try to “beat” them across an aisle or pathway. Also, never assume it’s safe to walk or stand near a forklift—even if it seems idle.

See more info – Safety 101: Situational Awareness

Safety is a Team Effort

Forklift safety isn’t just the responsibility of the operator—it’s everyone’s job. Creating a culture of awareness, ongoing training, and respect around heavy equipment keeps our team, our facilities, and our customers safe. When deciding what equipment to get consider choosing a manufacturer that enhances operator safety with built-in features like improved visibility, stability systems, and collision detection. Click here to learn more.

This National Forklift Safety Day, we encourage you to take a moment to refresh your safety knowledge, review your safety processes, share these tips with your team, and keep safety front and center every day.

Looking for more resources or training options?

Contact Lift Truck Center for support on equipment safety, operator training, and fleet maintenance programs. We’re here to help you work smarter—and safer.

From all of us at Lift Truck Center, stay safe and keep lifting smart!