Forklift operator warning as winter dark poses risks11 December 2012

Materials handling training group Mentor is urging plant managers with forklift trucks to ensure their staff are fully trained to work safely as winter arrives.

Mentor technical manager Steve Baldwin explains that winter brings additional risks, most notably changing light levels.

"Winter is always a risky time, with high levels of forklift truck activity, and extra pressure to fulfil orders," states Baldwin.

"Although some seasonal dangers, like ice and snow, are obvious, subtler factors, like lower light levels, arguably pose a bigger risk," he continues.

"Even if a yard is well lit, the difference when moving between indoors and outdoors is significant and extra care is required. Visibility issues contribute to as many as 80% of forklift truck accidents."

Baldwin makes the point that, for many staff working with or near fork lift trucks, it will be at least a year since they were last reminded to take account of winter risks.

Mentor is offering free training reviews.

Brian Tnham

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