OSHA enforces forklift safety standards


Shelter Enterprises, a Cohoes, NY insulation manufacturer, was recently fined more than $134,000 by OSHA after forklift accidents revealed the company hadn’t properly trained employees.

OSHA began its inspection last year after three employees were injured in a scaffolding accident. The inspection found the employees hadn’t received forklift training. Other alleged violations included using an improper platform on the forks of a forklift; modifying a forklift without the manufacturer’s approval; allowing employees’ arms and legs to extend outside the running lines of the forklift; and unstable loads on the forklift.

“The significant penalty demonstrates our commitment to protecting the health and safety of America’s workers,” an OSHA spokesman said.

Make sure you provide complete forklift training for your employees!