When it comes to forklift safety, it's not just the forks you need to watch.
Forklifts are a familiar sight in warehouses, factories and distribution centres. Most workers know to stay clear of the forks and moving loads.
But there's another hazard that's easy to overlook.
The back end of the forklift.
What is forklift tail swing?
Most conventional counterbalance forklifts steer using their rear wheels, unlike a car.
When the forklift turns, its heavy rear counterweight swings outward in the opposite direction to the turn.
This movement is known as forklift tail swing.
And it can catch pedestrians completely off guard.
A worker standing beside a forklift might believe they're safely out of its path, only to find the rear of the machine swinging towards them.
Why is forklift tail swing dangerous?
Imagine a forklift turning in a narrow warehouse aisle.
There's pallet racking on one side, machinery nearby and a pedestrian standing just outside the forklift's path.
As the operator turns, the rear counterweight swings outward.
Suddenly, that pedestrian could be struck or crushed between the forklift and a fixed object.
The danger isn't always where you're looking.
How can workplaces reduce the risk?
A few practical precautions can make a significant difference:
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Keep pedestrians separated from forklift operating areas wherever possible.
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Allow enough clearance for the rear of a forklift to swing during turns.
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Use designated pedestrian walkways and suitable physical barriers.
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Ensure forklift operators and pedestrians understand tail swing hazards.
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Never stand between a manoeuvring forklift and a wall, rack or other fixed object.
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Reinforce awareness with clear, visible workplace safety reminders.
Sometimes all you need is a reminder.
Workplace safety isn't always about introducing another complicated procedure.
Sometimes it's about making sure people remember the hazards already around them.
A simple visual reminder can help workers recognise the danger before they step into the wrong place.
That's why we've introduced our new FO023 – Forklift Tail Swing Safety Poster.
Featuring a bird's-eye view of a turning forklift, the poster highlights the rear swing danger zone and delivers one clear message:
FORKLIFT TURNING? KEEP YOUR DISTANCE!
Because when it comes to forklift safety, what happens behind the machine matters just as much as what happens in front.
Explore our workplace safety posters at www.safety4work.com.au
Every wall is an opportunity to improve safety.
