Top 5 Forklift Safety Violations and How to Prevent Them
Forklifts are essential for many industries, but they also pose serious risks when not operated safely. Failing to comply with forklift safety regulations can result in workplace accidents, legal penalties, and costly damages. To help businesses stay compliant, we’ve identified the top five most common forklift safety violations and how to prevent them with proper forklift safety training courses.
1. Lack of Proper Forklift Operator Certification
One of the most common violations is allowing untrained or uncertified employees to operate forklifts. In the UK, the Health & Safety Executive
(HSE) requires all operators to undergo approved forklift safety training to ensure they can handle equipment safely and efficiently.
How to prevent this:
Ensure all forklift operators complete accredited forklift safety training courses.
Provide refresher training to keep skills up to date.
Maintain records of all operator certifications to ensure compliance.
2. Failing to Conduct Pre-Operational Safety Checks
Skipping daily forklift inspections is another major violation that can lead to equipment failure and workplace accidents. A poorly maintained forklift can have issues such as faulty brakes, steering problems, or hydraulic leaks, increasing the risk of incidents.
How to prevent this:
Implement a daily forklift safety checklist to identify mechanical issues before use.
Train operators to spot potential hazards and report them immediately.
Schedule routine maintenance and servicing by qualified professionals.
3. Exceeding Load Capacity Limits
Overloading a forklift is a dangerous practice that can lead to tipping, loss of load control, and severe injuries. Every forklift has a specific load capacity, and exceeding it compromises stability.
How to prevent this:
Train operators on safe load handling techniques through forklift safety training courses.
Ensure all forklifts display clear load capacity ratings.
Teach staff how to properly distribute weight to maintain balance.
4. Unsafe Forklift Operation
Speeding, reckless driving, and failing to follow designated routes are common violations that increase the likelihood of workplace accidents. Forklift operators must always follow safe driving practices to avoid collisions and injuries.
How to prevent this:
Reinforce proper forklift operation through comprehensive safety training courses.
Set and enforce speed limits within the workplace.
Use designated pedestrian walkways and clearly mark forklift travel paths.
5. Poor Workplace Safety Measures
A lack of proper signage, barriers, and pedestrian safety measures can create hazardous working conditions. Many accidents occur due to poor visibility, blind spots, and inadequate traffic management in warehouses.
How to prevent this:
Install safety signs and floor markings to guide operators and pedestrians.
Implement pedestrian training alongside forklift safety training courses to promote awareness.
Use safety barriers and mirrors to improve visibility in high-traffic areas.
Why Should you Invest in Forklift Training?
At Sabretec Training, we specialise in accredited forklift safety training courses designed to keep businesses compliant and their employees safe. With over 45 years of experience in MHE training, we provide industry-leading safety training courses tailored to your operational needs.
Don’t risk costly fines or workplace accidents. Contact Sabretec Training to schedule your forklift safety training and ensure your business stays compliant.
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Year-end is the perfect time to assess training needs, update staff skills, and address any potential risks before 2026
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We help businesses across the UK keep their operators’ skills sharp, their sites compliant, and their teams safe, ultimately saving both time and money.
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safe working environment not only prevents accidents but also promotes staff health, satisfaction, and overall productivity.
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Professional forklift training ensures compliance with regulations and also offers numerous benefits that can improve overall business operations.