Pallet Jack | Health and Safety in the Workplace

A pallet jack is an essential part of a warehouse or industrial workspace. It can be used for transporting goods and other large objects with minimal strain and risk of injury put on employees.

The health and safety factors about pallet jacks are crucial for the safe operation and smooth running of an industrial workspace.

pallet jack

Training

A worrying statistic of one in ten employers believes that it is not essential for employees to be properly trained to operate a pallet trolley. This is not only dangerous for anyone working in that facility, it is also against the law. Under the Use of Work Regulations Act 1998 all employers must provide the necessary training to employees who are going to be using the equipment. Employees also require supervisors to be trained in the same way.

pallet jack

Safety

Safety is not something to be joked about, especially in the workplace. There are numerous videos on YouTube of workers carelessly and recklessly breaking health and safety laws by racing, jumping and playing on pallet stackers.

Although this can be funny at the time, it won’t be when someone actually gets seriously injured. To ensure that this doesn’t happen, pallet jacks should be stored away when not in use and employees should be supervised while using them.

pallet jack

Pallet Jack Operation

Here are a list of do’s a don’ts for pallet trolley operation;

Pallet Trolly Do’s

  • Whether the pallet trolley is manual or automatic, ensure you check the condition of it before any use and look out for any noticeable faults.
  • If any faults occur, notify a supervisor straight away, don’t try and move the pallet jack with objects on it
  • Always examine the load on the pallet jack before moving it (e.g. ensure load has not shifted and that it can get through doorways etc.)
  • Always check above you for any obstructions
  • Make sure the pallet jack is straight and centred on the pallet
  • Use both hands to help prevent muscle strain
  • Ensure pallet jack is in neutral when pulling it to reduce fatigue
  • For heavier loads, get some assistance in operating the pallet jack
  • Turn wide on corners to avoid knocking into doors, racks etc.
  • Take extra caution if you need to take a sharp turn
  • Always lower pallet lifter when left unsupervised
  • Make sure the pallet lifter is fully stopped and in the down position before lowering it.
  • Remember that pallet jacks are for work and not play
  • Ensure that path is clear before setting off

Pallet Jack Don’ts

  • Don’t try to operate pallet jack without full training or a supervisor present
  • Don’t try and lift a load with one fork
  • Don’t bump into or hit walls, corners or racks with pallet jack
  • Don’t place hands or feet under pallet jack when it is in the raised position

Share This: