FACTS
- Unsecured Forklift Movement: Failing to lower forks, engage the parking brake, or shut off the engine can lead to unexpected movement or rollaway incidents.
- Parked on Slopes or Uneven Surfaces: Leaving forklifts on inclined or unstable ground increases the chance of tip-overs or runaways.
- Obstructing Emergency Routes or Aisles: Parking in unauthorized areas can block fire exits, emergency access, or pedestrian walkways.
- Pedestrian Collision Hazard: Unattended forklifts with raised forks present serious trip and impalement hazards to nearby workers.
- Forklift Restart Without Inspection: Improperly parked forklifts may be restarted without necessary pre-use checks, leading to mechanical failure during operation.
- Electrical or Fire Hazard: Forklifts parked near power sources, battery charging stations, or flammable materials can contribute to fire or explosion risk.
STATS
- In 2023, 67 US workers died in forklift-related incidents, including rollaways and tip-overs from improper parking on inclines or unattended vehicles.
- Tip-overs, frequently caused by failing to park with brakes engaged or on level surfaces, account for 25% of all US forklift accidents annually.
- From 2021-2022, US forklift incidents led to 24,960 days-away, restricted, or transferred (DART) cases, many linked to unattended forklifts rolling into hazards.
- OSHA reports approximately 34,900 serious forklift injuries per year in the US, with improper parking contributing to rollaway risks in 20-25% of tip-over cases.
- In Canada, forklifts account for 10% of annual workplace fatalities (2020-2024), including incidents from unattended trucks not chocked or lowered.
- 70% of US forklift accidents, such as those from parked vehicles without controls applied, are preventable through adherence to parking protocols