[suffusion-widgets id=’4′]
Forklifts are used across a variety of industries. Therefore, forklift accidents are one of the most common types of work accidents in the U.S.
There are multiple causes of forklift accidents in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and they depend on the nature of the workplace and factors such as time of day and presence of other workers. Hands down, one of the most common causes of forklift accidents is improper or insufficient operator training.
In addition, the vast majority of forklift accidents are preventable and occur due to the negligence of the operator or negligence of a contractor who either provides the forklift or runs the facility where the forklift is being operated.
Related: Negligence Lawsuits in Forklift Accident Cases
Common negligent actions which lead to many forklift accidents include:
- failure to train in accordance with applicable OSHA standards,
- failure to employ a safety manager who ensures safe workplace operations,
- defective design or manufacture of a forklift, and
- negligent maintenance of a forklift.
OSHA Standards Applicable to Forklifts
Training Forklift Operators
OSHA, the federal government enforcement agency is tasked with overseeing workplace safety in this country. Forklift operations are heavily regulated, no matter the industry. Some of the most important regulations require specific types of training, both initial training and retraining or refresher training. However, many employers fail to provide the initial training and/or fail to provide refresher training.
More: OSHA Forklift Operator Training Requirements
Safety Managers
Safety managers are required in specific industries such as the construction industry. For instance on a large commercial construction site, a safety manager is usually hired by the general or prime contractor. The manager is tasked with safety issues and hazard concerns in and around the construction site. Forklift operations is one of the functions overseen by the safety manager. When construction projects continue without a safety manager, accidents and injuries are bound to happen.
Get more information about forklift accidents and PA & NJ law. Visit our forklift accident law library.
**This website does not provide legal advice. Every case is unique and it is crucial to get a qualified, expert legal opinion prior to making any decisions about your case. See the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.
Last updated: June 9, 2015
Published: July 11, 2012
