The Forklift Truck Driver
What to watch out for? What to do? How to act?
Information and training manual for the operator.
Brochure, DIN A5, 84 pages
with 15 practice questions to help you prepare for the test
Translation of the 29th German edition 2018
Author: Rechtsanwalt (qualified lawyer) Bernd Zimmermann
Forklift trucks are agile and indispensable assistants in a wide range of businesses. They ensure a fast and efficient flow of goods and come equipped with a range of safety features. Why, then, are there so many accidents – thousands every year – involving these machines? Every accident is one too many, especially when it involves personal injury.
The overwhelming majority of these accidents is caused by human error on the part of the driver, followed by an organisational error or technical fault.
The manufacturers make their vehicles as safe as possible. But it's worth remembering that one of the key principles of occupational health and safety is knowledge and training. Without them, accidents are inevitable.
The key factor in operating a forklift truck safely is ensuring the driver has full control. This requires formal training and is why so much of Germany's legislation governing workplace health and safety (such as the Work Safety Act (ArbSchG) and the Industrial Safety Regulations (BetrSichV)) lays such emphasis on ensuring staff are properly trained.
With illustrations and practical examples, this brochure teaches forklift truck drivers how to operate their vehicle safely. Each section has been given an extra page of practical illustrations. Experienced drivers can use it to refresh their knowledge, while businesses and safety engineers will find it a useful reference guide.
Remember:
Forklifts have many safety devices, but these are not a substitute for careful, prudent handling.
(Bernd Zimmermann)
