A forklift is piece of moving machinery that has a projecting platform shaped like a fork used to lift and move objects. Forklifts have been in use for the past 100 years, and are capable of lifting and carrying heavy loads.

Forklifts are used extensively in warehouses, factories and other places where huge loads need to be shifted on a regular basis. According to the Industrial Truck Association, there are about 856 thousand forklifts in the U.S. Forklifts are prone to accidents. The nature of accidents involving forklifts varies. The most common cases involve being crushed under tipping forklifts (42 %), coming between the vehicle and another surface (25%) and being crushed between two vehicles (11%). Some other cases involve being run over (10%), and instances of being struck by falling material (8%). Four percent of accidents are due to people falling on the forks. Over 55% of accidents occur at manufacturing units and construction sites. Studies show that mainly inadequate training given to forklift operators causes these accidents.

It is very dangerous to operate forklifts without proper training. It can prove fatal to the operator, and risk the lives of other employees working in the area. Training suggests keeping the load as low as possible to avoid tipping. Operators are also advised to remain in the lift in case of the vehicle tipping over.

Accidents happen everywhere. Forklifts accidents cannot be prevented totally, but with proper training it can certainly be minimized. Devices that stop the forklift if it lifts more than the specified weight should be installed in these lifts. This will make the lifts safer to operate.

One of the most pressing issues in the material handling industry is the safe operation of forklifts. Manufacturers, dealers and operators are involved in forklift safety promotion, monitoring and regulation.