FORKLIFT SAFETY TOOLBOX TALK
Control overturning, collision and dropped-load hazards.
Hazards, safe driving practices and daily pre-work verification.
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Toolbox Topic
FORKLIFT SAFETY TOOLBOX TALK
Duration
8–10 MINUTES
Date
Site / Area
Supervisor
Company
Participants
Document No
OBJECTIVE
Review forklift hazards including overturning, collisions, dropped loads, blind spots and pedestrian safety while applying safe operating practices.
TOPIC EXPLANATION
Only trained, authorised and medically fit operators may operate forklifts. Before each shift, inspect brakes, steering, tyres, forks, mast, hydraulics, horn, lights, reversing alarm, seat belt and safety devices.
The rated capacity shown on the data plate must never be exceeded. Load weight, centre of gravity, attachment use and load position can significantly affect forklift stability.
Loads must be stable, centred and carried as low as practicable. If the load blocks forward visibility, travel in reverse where safe or use an agreed spotter.
Pedestrians and forklifts must be separated wherever practicable. Operators must slow down at doors, intersections and blind corners and sound the horn where required.
Seat belts must be worn. During an overturn, the operator should remain inside the protective zone rather than attempting to jump from the truck.
When parking, lower the forks fully, select neutral, apply the parking brake, switch off and prevent unauthorised use.
REALISTIC SITE SCENARIO
An operator travelled forward with a load blocking visibility.
A pedestrian entered the intersection and the operator braked suddenly, causing the load to shift.
The incident could have been prevented through reverse travel, a spotter and correct load positioning.
REMEMBER
A forklift is a material handling vehicle, not a personnel carrier.
KEY HAZARDS
Overturning due to speed, turning, slopes or unstable loads.
Dropped or unstable loads striking personnel.
Pedestrians entering blind spots or travel routes.
Exceeding rated capacity or incorrect load-centre position.
Restricted visibility during forward travel.
Failure to use the operator restraint or seat belt.
Loss of control on ramps, slopes or poor ground.
Defective equipment or operation by unauthorised personnel.
CONTROL MEASURES
Allow only trained and authorised operators to use the forklift.
Complete and record the pre-use inspection before the shift.
Confirm load weight and forklift rated capacity before lifting.
Keep loads stable, centred and as low as practicable during travel.
Travel in reverse or use a spotter when forward visibility is obstructed.
Maintain separation from pedestrians and obey site traffic controls.
Reduce speed at intersections, doorways, corners and congested areas.
Wear the seat belt and remain within the operator protective zone.
Follow the approved method when travelling or parking on slopes.
Lower forks, apply the parking brake and isolate the forklift when parked.
Never carry passengers unless an approved passenger seat is provided.
Remove defective forklifts from service and report the defect.
SUPERVISOR TALKING SCRIPT
Team, today's forklift operators will complete the pre-use inspection before movement begins. We will confirm load weight and capacity, keep loads low and maintain separation from pedestrians. If a load blocks visibility, the operator will reverse where safe or use a spotter. Seat belts are mandatory. Slow down at intersections and blind corners, and never allow anyone beneath raised forks or loads. Any defect affecting safe operation means the forklift is removed from service.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Has the daily inspection been completed?
Is the operator authorised?
Is visibility restricted?
Is a spotter required?
Are pedestrian routes protected?
How will the forklift be parked safely?
VERIFY BEFORE STARTING TODAY
Authorised operator
Inspection complete
Brakes OK
Horn working
Alarm working
Forks OK
Load secure
Seat belt worn
Pedestrian routes clear
Safe parking area
ATTENDANCE AND APPROVAL
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Supervisor Signature
HSE Approval
SERNEM HSE Resource — Manufacturer instructions, traffic-management plans, rated-capacity limits and site forklift procedures take priority.