S ome of us might think that operating a forklift truck is no big deal. After all, we all drive cars and forklifts operate just like cars, so there’s nothing to worry about. In reality, however, forklifts aren’t just like cars. For instance, the typical forklift weighs nearly 9,000 pounds, which is about three times heavier than most small cars. And unlike cars, forklifts have brakes only in the front, which makes them harder to stop. Heavier in the rear Furthermore, forklifts are heavier in the rear in order to compensate for the fact that loads are carried in the front. The uneven weight distribution can make these vehicles more difficult to handle than cars. And forklifts are turned using the rear wheels, which can cause the rear wheels to swing outward, increasing the chances a vehicle will tip over during tight turns. The significant differences between forklifts and cars can make powered industrial trucks dangerous to operate. In fact, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), about 100 U.S. workers are killed and about 35,000 employees suffer severe injuries in forklift- related incidents every year. (How do forklifts cause fatal workplace injuries?) According to OSHA, the top causes of forklift- related fatalities are vehicle overturns, pedestrians being struck by powered trucks, and drivers falling out of the cab. You can avoid forklift- related injuries by keeping in mind that only properly trained and certified individuals are allowed to operate powered industrial trucks. You should never drive a forklift unless you’ve been formally trained in safe vehicle operation. Properly inspected Injury incidents are also less likely when forklifts are adequately inspected before they’re driven. At the start of each shift, examine the truck before using it. Visually check the tires, the brakes, the lights, the mast and the hydraulic system. Confirm the functionality of the horn, the seat belt and the warning lights, and examine the forks for signs of wear and tear. Damaged vehicles should be removed from service right away. Properly centered Before you begin driving the vehicle, make sure the weight of the load is properly centered and that the heaviest part of the load is positioned as close as possible to the front wheels. Never exceed the rated load capacity of the truck. You should also: • put on the seatbelt • keep a safe distance – the length of about three forklifts – from other equipment and pedestrians • look in the direction of travel at all times – if a load blocks your view, operate the truck in reverse • use the horn at blind corners and yield the right of way to pedestrians Thanks for your attention. And remember, let’s stay safe out there! Subject: Diesel exhaust Keep in mind that exposure to diesel engine exhaust can not only lead to short-term health problems such as headaches, nausea, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing and eye irritation, but it can also cause long- term illnesses such as cancer and respiratory conditions. What to focus on Here are three things to keep in mind in order to stay safe when you’re working near equipment and vehicles powered by diesel engines. 1. Ensure adequate ventilation levels. Always operate devices powered by diesel engines outdoors and not in enclosed spaces. Make sure all sources of general ventilation such as roof fans and wall fans are operating properly. Open windows and doors. And use local exhaust ventilation such as tailpipe extraction hoses to remove exhaust at the source. 2. Apply safe work practices. Shut off diesel engines when they’re not actively needed and reduce the unnecessary idling of trucks, forklifts and other diesel-powered equipment. 3. Wear safety gear. If you can’t otherwise reduce your exposure to diesel exhaust, put on an air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter certified for diesel exhaust contaminants. Today’s safety meeting ✔ Topic: Forklift safety ✔ Today’s Date: __________________ ✔ Attendee Signatures: Tailgate talk Supervisor’s safety toolbox SafetyAlert FOR SUPERVISORS 4 Safety Alert for Supervisors February 9, 2026