Warehouse Safety Tips | Episode 227 | Protecting Workers Around Industrial Trucks

Season 5, Episode 227,   Apr 17, 09:00 AM

Protecting Workers Around Industrial Trucks

On today's podcast, we'll be talking about protecting workers around industrial trucks.

So - stay tuned.

You can find the show notes to each episode, links to the information mentioned on the podcast, the social media platforms we're on, and anything else related to the podcast at WarehouseSafetyTips.com.

If you're a seasoned Podcast Listener, this podcast will be different from most you listen to.  It's based on exactly what the name implies - Warehouse Safety Tips.  And since the people in that industry are busy - we know time is money so each episode will be as short and to the point as possible.

And now that all that is out of the way - let's get to the Podcast!

Protecting Workers Around Industrial Trucks

Factories and warehouses are a hive of activity where powered industrial trucks (like forklifts) and pedestrians must coexist. Unfortunately, this interaction carries risks. It's vital to follow and implement the rules and guidelines for a safer working environment.

Here are 5 steps to get started:

1. Define and Mark Clear Travel Paths

Designate specific lanes for powered industrial truck traffic. Use highly visible floor marking tape (such as Mighty Line®) to clearly delineate these paths, guiding both operators and pedestrians. Whenever possible, separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic to reduce potential collisions.

2. Protect High-Traffic Areas with Barriers

Install physical barriers or guardrails where pedestrians frequent, particularly around entrances, exits, and walkways. This creates a crucial buffer between people and moving vehicles.

3. Emphasize Safety Training

Provide regular, comprehensive safety training for powered industrial truck operators and pedestrians. Topics should include vehicle operation, pedestrian rights-of-way, and how to interact safely within the facility. Frequent reinforcement builds a robust and safety-focused workplace culture.

4. Use Clear Signage and Markings

Bold signs indicating forklift activity, dedicated pedestrian zones, and well-marked emergency exits are essential. Durable floor markings help ensure long-lasting visibility and compliance with OSHA standards.

5. Conduct Regular Safety Meetings

Hold frequent safety meetings to discuss hazards, incident reviews, and safety procedure updates. This collaborative approach encourages continuous improvement for all employees.

As with ALL our tips, please follow the rules and guidelines of your specific facility.

Employers in factory and warehouse settings are responsible for minimizing the risks posed by powered industrial trucks. Adhering to OSHA guidelines and implementing these strategies protects workers, ensures a safer environment, and facilitates a smooth, productive operation. 

Thank you for being part of another episode of Warehouse Safety Tips.

Until we meet next time - have a great week, and STAY SAFE!

Before moving on - here's a word from one of our sponsors.

If you've ever been to or worked in a warehouse - you know just how important safety is to management and staff.  It's almost impossible to go 10 steps without seeing Safety Tape, Angles, Signs, and/or products.

These items show us how to be safe and avoid danger in the workplace.  And if you're looking for the best products to make this happen - look no further than Mighty Line!

Mighty Line Floor Signs / Floor Markings offer the best industrial products!

Go to MightyLineTape.com/SafetyTips to request a Sample Pack of their incredible Safety Signs and Floor Markings.

What makes Mighty Line the superior choice in keeping your facility safe and productive?

  • Mighty Line Tape is the strongest floor tape on the market and has a beveled edge that increases durability for industrial brush scrubbers, forklifts, and heavy industrial wheel traffic. 
  • Easy installation and removal thanks to Mighty Line's peel-and-stick backing.  You can apply and reapply it during installation - and it leaves no sticky residue should you need to remove it.  This allows the ability to change workflow areas quickly and easily - and not have the downtime associated with painting or using floor markings that leave behind a mess when you remove them.
  • Mighty Line Tape is 7 times thicker than the average Safety Floor Tape.
  • Mighty Line's Signs and Markings come in various shapes, colors, and sizes.  And if they don't have what you're looking for in stock - their Customize It Program allows you to create exactly what you're looking for. 
  • Mighty Line offers a Limited 3-Year Warranty on their Floor Signs and Markings.
  • And last but certainly not least - Mighty Line Products are Patented and PROUDLY Made in the USA!
We're proud to have Mighty Line as THE Official Floor Sign / Floor Marking Company for the Warehouse Safety Tips Podcast and Site.

Again - Go to MightyLineTape.com/SafetyTips to request a Sample Pack of their incredible Safety Signs and Floor Markings.

If you visit WarehouseSafetyTips.com - you'll find the Show Notes for this episode.

Thank you for listening to Warehouse Safety Tips - and have a SAFE day!

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If you didn't notice - we're now under the Safety Stripes Podcast Network with our partner Mighty Line.

Be sure to watch or listen to ALL episodes of Warehouse Safety Tips and  Mighty Line Monday Minute - with Wes Wyatt and  Mighty Line's Innovative Safety Solutions Director.

Audio: https://audioboom.com/channels/5013934-safety-stripes-by-mighty-line-floor-tape-the-best-workplace-safety-podcast

Video: https://vimeo.com/mightylinefloortape