Philadelphia Construction Accident Lawyers: Forklift Statistics Increase Awareness in the Workplace

Forklifts account for 10 percent of all physical injuries in the workplace. These heavy duty industrial trucks are responsible for 85 fatal work accidents every year. However, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) predicts that 70 percent of workplace injuries could be prevented if employers implemented stricter training. At DiTomaso Law, our Philadelphia construction accident lawyers are staunch advocates for training over treatment when it comes to forklift accidents.

OSHA Precautions Regarding Forklifts

Most commonly used in warehouses, factories, and shipping companies, forklifts are heavier than cars, weighing up to 9,000 pounds. Since forklifts are used to transport heavy loads, there is often an uneven distribution of weight and an obstruction to the view of the driver. Forklifts can reach a speed of 18 miles per hour, but it is recommended that they operate at eight miles per hour. Driving them at a low speed will prevent mishandling.

Although employee safety is the number one concern, business is a priority as well. Forklift accidents can cause severe damage to walls, pallet racks, doors, and other places in a warehouse. The best way to avoid injury and damage is to make sure employees are well trained and follow appropriate standards. To operate a forklift both safely and legally, here are a few operational safety tips provided by OSHA:

• Make sure the driver is certified. Operators must be over the age of 18.
• Sound the horn or flash a warning light to alert pedestrians.
• Keep the speed limit less than ten miles an hour to prevent tipping over or collision.
• Avoid pedestrians, wet floors, and obstacles.
• Keep a clear view and watch for blind spots.
• Increase visibility with rear-view mirrors or spotters.
• Check both ways when going in reverse or making turns.

McCue’s Steel Barrier Prevents Forklift Injuries

Forklifts are valuable to employers because reduce the cost of labor. McCue specializes in products that protect warehouses and distribution centers using powered industrial trucks daily. Their most recent design is a barrier consisting of guard rails which absorb and deflect energy from a forklift. This barrier has the potential to not only secure assets, but to save lives.

Philadelphia Construction Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Provide Help for Victims of Forklift Accidents

If you are a construction worker that has been in a forklift accident, our Philadelphia construction accident lawyers can help. DiTomaso Law is conveniently located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Philadelphia and we re committed to providing experienced legal counsel to clients in the Greater Philadelphia area.  Contact us online or call 215-426-4493 to discuss your case.