Tragedies could have been avoided
October 1st 2006

The Fork Lift Truck Association has issued a safety warning in response to two separate, fatal accidents involving markedly similar circumstances.

Tragically the fatalities could have been avoided had the operators employed a few basics life-saving measures.

The FLTA is reminding employers that it is important to regularly monitor fork lift truck operators and ensure they receive refresher training when it is required. Above all they must observe fundamental safety rules.

The message is: " follow the correct procedures that should always be followed when parking a fork lift truck - regardless of how short a time the truck will be left unattended."

The truck should be on level ground to avoid unwanted movement when stationary. The forks must be lowered to the ground, the parking brake fully applied and the keys removed.

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