NT WorkSafe responds to third forklift incident in four weeks

NT WorkSafe inspectors have attended another forklift tip over; the third such incident in four weeks in the Territory. The latest incident occurred in Katherine, when a licensed operator was reversing on rough ground with a wreck lifted high on the forklift mast, when the forklift tipped over. The operator was wearing a seatbelt and did not sustain any injuries.

NT WorkSafe has issued a safety alert to remind forklift owners and operators of the hazards associated with operating forklifts, particularly on uneven ground with elevated heavy and large-dimension loads.

Employers have a duty to ensure the health and safety of their forklift operators and that the operation of forklifts in their workplace does not jeopardise the health and safety of others.

This duty includes making sure workers have a safe system to operate forklifts and are provided with information, training and instruction to perform the task safely. Workers also have a duty to take care of their own health and safety and to make sure their actions do not risk the health and safety of others.

NT WorkSafe Acting Manager for Safety Assurance Bruce McKinley and his team have been conducting a forklift safety focus with NT WorkSafe inspectors, visiting and providing information to more than 80 workplaces across the Territory in the past two weeks.

McKinley noted that this is a call to action to all employers of forklift operators to toolbox this safety alert and reinforce their safe systems of work at the next opportunity.

“Operating a forklift with a fully extended mast on uneven ground is well below any acceptable standard for safety. If your workplace hasn’t been visited and you would like to schedule a visit to have a chat with an inspector about forklift safety, give us a call on 1800 019 115,” said McKinley.

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