As anyone who studies the materials handling press will know, tragic accidents are often the result of failure to follow very basic safety procedures. To address such complacency, the Fork Lift Truck Association is launching a campaign entitled “Safety 4MOST” at IMHX 2007 (NEC, Birmingham, 13th to 16th March – Stand 20F122, Hall 20).
Designed to support the anticipated HSE Route Map for the Safe Operation of Workplace Transport, Safety 4MOST takes as its theme four major elements of fork lift safety: Management, Operator, Site and Truck.
Its aim is to remind everyone of their basic responsibilities when it comes to safety. Take seat belts, for example. A recent FLTA survey suggested that as many as 90% of operators were still not wearing them. Although in some circumstances restraints are impractical, those cases in no way account for such a high level of non-use.
“There are many other principles that are essential to the safety of all materials handling operations,” says FLTA Chief Executive David Ellison. “There is nothing radically different in this campaign’s messages. It’s not rocket science. We are just giving simple reminders that can save lives and limbs.”
The advice is presented in a Safety 4MOST pack containing four double-sided A4 posters. Each has a cartoon to illustrate a key point on one side, with a summary of the related safety principles on the reverse.
Packs can be requested by post from the FLTA or picked up at IMHX, but those collected at the exhibition will contain a bonus in the form of four vouchers giving: 20% discount on membership of the FLTA Safe User Group; 10% discount on training booked through selected providers; a special entry form to make a nomination for an FLTA Safe Site Award; and 20% discount on FLTA Daily Checks booklets.
In addition to promoting its Safety 4MOST campaign, the Association will be advising on Thorough Examination and explaining to truck owners and operators the many benefits of joining the FLTA Safe User Group (SUG).
The stand will also provide a service for existing members. “We always enjoy talking to members face to face,” says David Ellison, “so we’d like them to feel very welcome to come along for a chat, a cup of tea and a rest, and perhaps to leave their bags with us while they explore the rest of the stands.”