Forklift campaign to raise standards

Forklift trucks are among the most dangerous pieces of equipment in the Australian workplace.

In Victoria alone 49 workers have been killed since January 1985. Over the same period more than 6000 Victorians have suffered serious injuries resulting in more than $130 million being paid in workers' compensation payments.

To tackle the problem, WorkSafe Victoria has launched a comprehensive advertising campaign reminding employers that 'pedestrians and forklifts don't mix'.

Combined with a strict 'zero tolerance' enforcement policy that will see WorkSafe inspectors visiting workplaces across the state, the campaign is designed to educate employers and employees.

It follows a statewide push in conjunction with the National Registered Assessors Association and Victorian Transport Association which have been running forklift safety seminars in metropolitan and regional areas since late last year. WorkSafe Victoria has produced an information pack designed to prevent forklift accidents occurring. It focuses on improving forklift traffic management in the workplace.

The information pack contains a guide for employers covering traffic management, forklift stability, ventilation of workplaces, forklift maintenance and legal issues. Stickers warning of safety issues and a daily safety checklist are also included.