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Statistics - Source: Worksafe Victoria
The forklift truck can be one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment in the workplace. From January 1985 to January 2003, forklifts were associated with 48 fatalities in Victorian workplaces.
During the same period more than 6000 people - primarily forklift operators or employees walking in the forklift zone - suffered injuries. More than $130 million has been paid in claims payments resulting from those injuries.
The key lesson to be learned is that pedestrians must be kept at a safe distance from working forklifts. Even at low speeds, an unexpected movement of the forklift can crush a bystander against a fixed structure or another
When pedestrians work or move in close proximity to operating forklifts, it is only a matter of time before a serious injury or fatality occurs. Ensuring the safety of pedestrians is a critical aspect of workplace traffic management.
Protecting pedestrians at the workplace requires decisive action to prevent, not just discourage, pedestrians and forklifts from coming into close proximity.
Links - Australia
National Registered Assessors Association
Safety Institute of Australia
WorkSafe Victoria
Workcover A.C.T
Workcover S.A.
Workcover W.A. Forklift accidents resulted in ten fatalities in Western Australia between 1990 and 2002 inclusive.
Workcover NSW
Workcover QLD
DEET N.T.
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