Common Forklift Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Forklifts are essential in warehouses, construction sites, and manufacturing plants, but improper operation can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and costly damages. Many forklift accidents occur due to common mistakes that could be easily prevented with proper training and awareness. At Sabretec Training, we have over 45 years of experience in Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) training. We are an accredited training provider known for excellence in service provision, outstanding customer care, and great reviews from businesses across the UK. Let's explore common forklift mistakes.
1. Failing to Conduct Pre-Use Safety Checks:
One of the most overlooked but essential aspects of forklift operation is the pre-use inspection. Operators must check the forklift before each shift to identify any mechanical faults, such as brake failures, worn tyres, or hydraulic leaks. Neglecting these checks can result in breakdowns, equipment failure, or accidents.
How to Avoid It:
Sabretec Training teaches operators how to conduct thorough pre-use safety inspections, ensuring all forklifts are in top condition before use. This helps prevent unexpected failures and keeps workplaces safe.
2. Overloading the Forklift
Each forklift has a maximum load capacity, which must never be exceeded. Overloading can cause the forklift to become unstable, leading to tip-overs, damaged goods, and potential injuries.
How to Avoid It:
Proper forklift training helps operators understand load capacity ratings, weight distribution, and the importance of securing loads correctly. At Sabretec Training, we emphasise safe loading techniques to prevent accidents and costly product damage.
3. Incorrect Load Handling
Improper load handling, such as lifting with uneven weight distribution, tilting loads incorrectly, or failing to secure items properly, can lead to dropped goods, damaged pallets, or forklift instability.
How to Avoid It:
Our expert training ensures operators learn the correct way to pick up, transport, and stack loads securely, reducing the risk of workplace accidents and product loss.
4. Reckless Driving and Speeding
Operating a forklift at excessive speeds or making sudden turns can cause the vehicle to tip over, leading to serious injuries. Forklifts are designed for controlled, steady movements—speeding or sharp turns compromise stability.
How to Avoid It:
Sabretec Training reinforces safe driving techniques, including speed control, proper turning methods, and hazard awareness to ensure operators handle forklifts responsibly.
5. Ignoring Pedestrian Safety
One of the most common forklift-related accidents involves collisions with pedestrians. Operators must always be aware of their surroundings, use signals, and follow designated traffic routes within warehouses and work sites.
How to Avoid It:
We educate operators on pedestrian awareness, workplace safety zones, and effective communication to minimise the risk of accidents and maintain a safe working environment.
6. Operating a Forklift Without Proper Training
Untrained or uncertified forklift operators pose a significant risk to themselves and others. Lack of training leads to poor load handling, unsafe driving, and a higher chance of accidents.
How to Avoid It:
Sabretec Training provides AITT-accredited training to ensure all forklift operators are fully competent, compliant with UK safety regulations, and equipped with the skills needed to handle forklifts safely and efficiently.
Why Choose Sabretec Training?
With over 45 years of industry experience and expertise in Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) training, Sabretec Training is committed to delivering exceptional service and customer care. Our accredited courses cover novice training, refresher courses, and multi-truck training, helping businesses across the UK maintain safety and compliance. We have outstanding reviews
from satisfied clients who trust us to provide high-quality training tailored to their needs.
Book Your Forklift Training
Avoid costly mistakes and ensure workplace safety with Sabretec Training. Whether you need beginner training, refresher courses, or multi-truck certification, we provide expert training to keep your operators skilled and your business compliant. Contact us
today to book your forklift training and improve safety standards at your workplace.
Workplace safety is a top priority for any business, and first aid training plays a crucial role in protecting employees and fostering a positive work environment.
Year-end is the perfect time to assess training needs, update staff skills, and address any potential risks before 2026
We ensure your workforce is well-prepared for maintaining safety, productivity, and compliance throughout winter.
We help businesses across the UK keep their operators’ skills sharp, their sites compliant, and their teams safe, ultimately saving both time and money.
One of the most effective ways to improve staff retention and job satisfaction is through regular workplace training.
Creating a strong training culture is essential for any business aiming to reduce workplace injuries and maintain a safe, compliant environment.
safe working environment not only prevents accidents but also promotes staff health, satisfaction, and overall productivity.
First aid training has an impact on employee confidence empowering staff to take control in emergencies and strengthening overall workplace morale.
Developing a safety-first mindset is one of the most effective ways to reduce accidents, improve productivity, and build employee confidence.
Professional forklift training ensures compliance with regulations and also offers numerous benefits that can improve overall business operations.