Although the main tasks of a warehouse are to produce and store products, warehouse managers have an even bigger day-to-day goal: safety. For the Industrial Truck Association, safety has taken center stage through its sponsorship of National Forklift Safety Day, which took place June 14. On its website, the association highlights that the goal of the day was to spread awareness and education to customers, the public and government officials about safe forklift practices.
For lift truck manufacturers, ensuring operator safety is not something they take lightly. “Safety is a top priority for every organization,” says Jim Gaskell, director of global technology and business development for Crown Equipment Corp., New Bremen, Ohio. “It certainly takes a lead role when forklifts are being utilized in warehouse and distribution center environments. A full-pallet load is heavy, and safety procedures should be taken, especially when it is being maneuvered at high heights.”