Pedestrian traffic

Forklift operators should always be aware of conditions in their workplace, including pedestrian traffic. Forklift traffic should be separated from other workers and pedestrians where possible.

Potential Hazard

• Danger of striking pedestrians and objects

Requirements and Recommended Practices

• Yield right of way to pedestrians.

• When a person or group of people walks across your planned route:

  • Stop.

  • Wait until the pedestrians pass by.

  • Proceed cautiously through any congested area.

• If an area is cluttered, walk the route first to spot problems.

  • Check for situations that require a spotter and use one when traveling.

  • Warn pedestrians, by asking them to move, if there is not sufficient safe clearance.

  • Sound the horn at blind corners, doorways and aisles.

  • Sound the horn or other alarm when you back up.

Reminders for the Driver

• Slow down, stop and sound horn at intersections, corners, and wherever your vision is obstructed.

• When provided, use flashing warning light or backup alarms when traveling in reverse.

• Do not move the truck if you do not have a clear view of travel.

• Use a spotter for blind spots.

• Always look in the direction of travel.

• Keep a clear view.

• Start, stop, travel, steer and brake smoothly.

• Signal to pedestrians to stand clear.

• Do not allow anyone to stand or pass under the load or lifting mechanism.

• When possible, make eye contact with pedestrians or other forklift operators.

Reminders for the Pedestrians

• Be aware that lift trucks cannot stop suddenly. They are designed to stop slowly to minimize load damage and maintain stability.

• Stand clear of lift trucks in operation.

• Avoid a run-in. The driver's visibility may be limited due to blind spots.

• Be aware of the wide rear swing radius.

• Use pedestrian walkways, or stay to one side of the equipment aisle.

• Never ride on a forklift, unless authorized and the forklift is designed for riders.

• Never pass under an elevated load.

Reminders for Plant Safety Managers

• OSHA requires that permanent aisles and passageways be free from obstructions and appropriately marked where mechanical handling equipment is used. [29 CFR 1910.176(a)]

• Consider separating pedestrians from lift trucks by providing:

  • Pedestrian walkways,

  • Permanent railings or other protective barriers,

  • Adequate walking space at least on one side, if pedestrians must use equipment aisles,

  • Pedestrian walkway striping on the floor, if barriers cannot be used.

• Install convex mirrors at blind aisle intersections.

• Post traffic control signs.

• Post plant speed limits.

Moving personnel

Passengers should not be allowed on forklifts unless the forklift is specifically designed to accommodate passengers.

Potential Hazard

• Danger of falling

Requirements and Recommended Practices

• The OSHA standard [29 CFR 1910.178(m)(3)] states that unauthorized personnel are prohibited from riding on a forklift. If riders are authorized, a safe place must be provided.

• Unless authorized, never carry passengers --
  NO RIDERS.

• Use only specialized equipment designed to raise personnel.

• Never transport employees on a platform. Employees can only be hoisted up and down.

• Never transport employees on the forks.

Maintain distance

Forklift operators should keep a safe distance from workers on foot and other pedestrians.

Potential Hazard

• Danger of striking pedestrians

Requirements and Recommended Practices

• Warn pedestrians of your approach by horn, hand signal, or warning light.

• Maintain a safe clearance from coworkers.

• Employees should stay out of the potential path where a load can fall.