Along with forklift safety, many other factors should be of concern when storing and handling materials.

Recognizing that damaged product is an unnecessary and wasteful expense, all workers are expected to exert the greatest care in handling any and all materials in their workplace.  

Workers must ensure that:

A pre-operational check of their equipment is performed prior to moving any materials.

Any repairs required to equipment are reported immediately and any equipment that is unsafe is not used.

Only capable and qualified personnel will operate equipment.

Rated capacity of forklift or other lifting equipment is not exceeded.

Extreme care be taken when tilting loads. Tilting forward with forks elevated shall be prohibited except when picking up a load. Tilting elevated loads forward shall be prohibited, except where the load is to be deposited on a storage rack or equivalent.

Special precautions be taken in the securing and handling of loads by forklifts equipped with special attachments and during the operation of these trucks after loads have been removed.

Material is stacked properly for safe and efficient retrieval. Keep heavier materials near floor.

Aisles/walkways/ramps remain clear of foreign material and equipment, stack items so that they do not extend into aisles. Be sure bin items do not extend into walkways and that bin drawers are not left open.

Overhead obstructions, doorways and entrances are safely cleared by forklift and load.

Materials are handled safely to avoid cuts and other injury (hand/mechanized)