Forklift Fatalities and Prevention
Transportation | 15-20 min
Summary
Forklifts cause approximately 85 workplace deaths and 34,900 serious injuries each year in the United States, making them one of the most hazardous types of powered industrial equipment. The three leading causes of forklift fatalities are tip-overs (accounting for about 42% of deaths), pedestrians struck by forklifts, and operators crushed between the forklift and a surface. Most forklift incidents are completely preventable with proper training, safe operating practices, and effective pedestrian controls.
Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.
Start your 7-day free trialKey Points to Cover
- Pedestrian struck-by is a leading cause of forklift deaths
- Tip-overs often kill operators who jump
- Stay in the cab with seatbelt fastened during tip-over
- Never allow riders on forklifts
- Maintain visibility and watch for pedestrians
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should this safety talk take?
Plan for about 15-20 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.
Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?
Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.