Forklift manufacturer reveals plans to avoid warehouse accidents

Linde Material Handling in Australia, a manufacturer of electric forklifts, has outlined its “Vision Zero” initiative aimed at achieving a 100% reduction in warehouse logistics accidents.

Drivers, workers, racks, and equipment all require safeguarding against potential risks of accidents. Linde Material Handling is addressing this challenge by implementing various safety measures to prevent collisions involving its forklifts. Pedestrian-only zones formed by walkways and barriers have been established to separate personnel from vehicles, while forklifts are equipped with warning systems to avert collisions.

Although manual handling equipment like storage trolleys, aisle picking trolleys and furniture trolleys may not pose the same level of danger as motorized vehicles, operators must undergo comprehensive safety training to mitigate accident hazards.

Belinda de Ruiter, the National HSEQ Manager at Linde Material Handling, emphasises that warehouse management often overlooks safety risks and tends to prioritize production over safety. In the event of accidents, there can be a lack of accountability with employers frequently blaming employees rather than the absence of robust safety protocols.

De Ruiter underscores the importance of a collaborative approach by engaging all workers in health and safety discussions, including the implementation of traffic management schemes and enhancements in lighting. Worker insights into safety challenges are the key to creating a safety culture. She warns against unnecessary risk taking caused by time and client demand pressures.

Linde is supporting Australia’s SafeWork NSW in its commitment to workplace safety, as this aligns with the company’s VisionZero goals.

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