2016 OSHA Fines and Fatalities
In Illinois and other states across the country, it can be hard to imagine how we would function without forklifts and aerial lifts. These machines must be used correctly and treated with respect as they can be often dangerous and even fatal. After an accident, if a vehicle was used incorrectly or without full compliance, your company could be gearing up for major OSHA audits and costly fines.
In Illinois alone, there are hundreds of accidents involving forklifts and aerial lifts. Roughly 4 people lose their lives in Illinois each year as a result. Here’s a look at the numbers.
FACTS AND FIGURES
Here are 2016 facts and figures involving forklift & aerial accidents as well as top $ OSHA fines:
- In 2016, there were hundreds of forklift accidents in Illinois alone
- Of those accidents, around 67 resulted in serious injury to a person, or persons
- Of all accidents in the workplace, forklift/aerial accidents are the fourth most common
- 4 people lost their lives in forklift accidents
- According to OSHA, roughly 30% of accidents are a result of inadequate training
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF FORKLIFT ACCIDENT?
Some of the most common causes of forklift/aerial accident include:
- Individuals struck by material falling from inadequate use
- Collisions with pedestrians
- Vehicles tipping over and crushing an individual(s)
- Individual(s) falling from heights
- Individuals crushed between vehicle and hard surface
SAFETY AND BEST PRACTICES
There are a number of ways in which you can help to protect yourself and others. These include:
- Never allowing riders on the vehicle
- Only handle loads within rated capacity
- Always tilt the load back before raising or driving
- Never walk under a raised load. Watch for pedestrians!
- Always stay under the overhead gaurd
- Always wearing a seatbelt!
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROFESSIONAL FORKLIFT TRAINING
Let’s first place emphasis on just how important it is to receive professional training. Forklift and Aerial training ensures safer drivers and safer working conditions. It reduces maintenance costs, reduces the risk of injury, protects you against costly issues and fines, and protects your insurance rates.
Below you can find an infographic with facts and figures about forklift accidents in Illinois involving fatalities and costly OSHA fines. Do not let this happen to you!
