When used in the right warehouse environment, forklift safety accessories can effectively prevent accidents. However, they should complement—not replace—essential safety practices like using horns, spotters, or restricting pedestrian areas. Additionally, the benefits of these accessories should be emphasized to employees performing pre-shift inspections and operating the forklift, as their effectiveness depends on proper usage.
Choosing Forklift Safety Accessories
Key Questions To Review:
- Could a safety accessory have prevented a recent accident?
- Are blind spots prevalent throughout the warehouse or in a specific area?
- Have operators complained of neck strain?
- Do operators frequently forget to sound the forklift’s horn?
- Is the warehouse well lit?
- Are forklifts used primarily in daylight?
- Is the warehouse very large or small, causing sounds to be distant or overwhelming?
- Is the warehouse naturally noisy?
- Would a back-up alarm potentially cause hearing loss?
- Are forklifts operated near flammable materials?
- Were the forklifts manufactured with a safety accessory?
Popular Forklift Safety Parts
A forklift operator is responsible for staying aware of both pedestrians and other operators, which can be challenging in a busy warehouse. To enhance safety, many companies rely on popular forklift safety parts and accessories to help protect employees.
Forklift Mirrors
Mirrors are affordable, easy to install, and can be used indoors or outdoors. They reduce physical strain by offering wide-angle views and improving visibility of blind spots, helping prevent collisions with forklifts and pedestrians.
Forklift Back-Up Alarms
These alarms alert others when a forklift is near, adding a sound dimension. “Smart alarms” can adjust volume based on ambient noise levels. If installed, they must remain functional.
Forklift Strobe Lights
Strobe lights provide a visual warning of an approaching forklift and must remain operational if equipped.
Forklift Fire Extinguishers
Though not required, they are useful in environments with flammable materials, offering extra protection.
