Pedestrian Safety
What warehouse safety precautions does your facility need to follow?
![Warning Light](https://www.raymondwest.com/-/media/dealers/raymond-handling-concepts-added/warning-light.jpg?rev=688531a63f204730911ea8e8328f48ad&h=400&w=400&la=en&hash=231287B47061EA841FF96F7CC6063F69)
Forklift operators should always be aware of their workplace, including pedestrian traffic. When possible, forklift traffic should be separated from other workers and pedestrians.
Forklift driver responsibilities
- It’s a recommended practice to yield the right of way to pedestrians.
- Stop when a group of people walk across your planned route and wait until the pedestrians have passed.
- You should proceed with caution through any congested area.
- Before operating a forklift, it is a good idea to complete a brief walkthrough of your route. This is similar to completing a safety check on your forklift before operating.
- Clear any hazards before going on with your standard driving route.
Reminders for lift truck drivers
- At all intersections, corners and anytime your vision is obstructed you should always sound your horn and either slow down or stop.
- You should use a backup alarm, strobe light, and/or a blue light when traveling in reverse.
- Some high-traffic areas may require a spotter to assist and guide the driver.
- Always keep a clear view and make eye contact with pedestrians and other forklift operators when possible.
- Signal to pedestrians to stand clear.
- Start, stop, travel, steer and brake smoothly.
Reminder for warehouse pedestrians
- Remember, forklifts are not designed for sudden stops. They are designed to stop gradually to maintain stability and minimize load damage.
- The best way to avoid a run-in is by always standing clear of lift trucks in operation.
- Remember that forklift drivers may have limited visibility due to blind spots.
- Never ride on a forklift unless it is designed and authorized for riding.
- Always use pedestrian walkways or stay to one side of the equipment.
- When possible, you should make eye contact with the forklift driver.
Reminders for warehouse safety managers
- Permanent aisle and passageways are required to be free of obstructions and should be appropriately marked where mechanical handling equipment is used.
- Consider separating pedestrians from lift trucks by providing the following:
- Use pedestrian walkways.
- Use permanent railings or other protective barriers.
- If pedestrians must use equipment aisles, they must have adequate walking space on at least one side.
- f railings or barriers are not available, pedestrian walkway striping can be used.
Other great safety tips for warehouse drivers and pedestrians
- Use convex mirrors at corners and blind intersections
- Post traffic control signs
- Post warehouse speed limits
- Warehouse
- bollards
- Retractable belts and posts Dock lights
- Many warehouse locations require that lift truck drivers and pedestrians wear bright reflective safety vests, which increases visibility of both.