Do You Know That …
- Nearly 1/4 of workplace transport injuries are the result of forklift accidents
- The Forklift Truck Association (FLTA) reports that forklifts are one
of the most dangerous aspects of workplace transport - Forklifts injure 2,200 people annually, 1,300 who are hospitalized
with serious, or life-changing injuries
According to OSHA, the average cost of a warehouse injury accident is over $118,000. That assumes no increase in Workers’ Comp or insurance costs, And, no legal costs, settlement costs, or regulatory fines. One of the leading contributors to lift truck accidents (and the most expensive liability) is unsafe equipment.
The question is: How many of the 95,000 accidents are avoidable? Obviously, improved safety and operator training, safety-oriented work environments, improved oversight are some solutions. Fortunately, there are myriad solutions, ranging from onsite and inside training to outside trainers and consultants.
But what about unsafe and non-compliant equipment – the most overlooked and dangerous factor. In a business environment where cost reduction is a critical decision point, actual maintenance and compliance in material handling equipment becomes a low priority – until that accident occurs. Then, liability issues aside, OSHA and state OSHA inspect and evaluate the actual condition of the equipment, creating further exposure for the operating firm, especially if the maintenance records do not jibe with the equipment condition.
The solution to reducing maintenance costs over the mid-term and reducing liability and regulatory exposure is a rigorous professional third-party audit, preferably periodic, that includes inspection of equipment for safety, maintenance condition, wear and tear, impending problems, as well as compliance with regulatory, manufacturer and industry standards. This inspection should be combined with an audit of maintenance records for accuracy regarding actual equipment condition, actual maintenance performed, and compliance.
Lift Auditors brings to bear 40 years of experience in the operation, management, maintenance, and compliance of material handling equipment in rigorous environments on the audit process. The company provides audit and inspection services ranging from surface inspections to comprehensive programs, and up to expert witness testimony. Lift Auditors services are cost-effective, and are objective, reserved to the client. Lift Auditors has no ties to any manufacturer supplier or maintenance firms.
For more information, see www.liftaudit.com or contact mike@liftaudit.com
