Page 300 - IGC BOOK

The factors that can cause forklift truck to overturn

• The speed of travel.
• The steepness of the slope.
• The height the load is raised to, as well as the stability of the load.
• Increased or incorrect tyre pressure.
• Any external longitudinal pressure, such as wind or colliding objects.
• Presence, and size of, any bumps or holes in the surface.
• Excessive braking.
• Environmental condition – poor lighting, potholes etc.,

Non-Movement Related Hazards

Vehicles also bring hazards when certain work activities are carried out on the vehicle:

Loading and Unloading

• Manual handling hazards arises when the loads are being loaded or unloaded, the task may
include work at height, hence there is a risk of fall from vehicle.

• Mechanical hazard is present in the task for example collision of pedestrian and forklift in

the truck dock area.
• Vehicles overturn during tipping operation resulting in workers get struck by tipping
materials.

Coupling and Uncoupling

Coupling and uncoupling has the potential to cause collision or being crushed in between the trailers
and towed equipment.

Securing Loads

Loads are secured to the vehicles using webbings or ropes. Chains are used to hook the loads to the
anchorage points, during this activity the worker may fall from height when they try to secure the
loads on a truck.

Maintenance Work

Due to wear and tear vehicles are required to undergo routine maintenance. During maintenance
process the worker may have to access underneath raised tipping trailers or vehicle cabs, due to
poor support there is a possibility to get crushed.

ENSIGN | General Workplace Issues 33