Forklift vibration is a health hazard

Many kinds of machinery, including forklifts, produce vibrations, which can negatively impact an operator’s body and cause permanent disability, writes Dirk Zeinstra, a mechanical engineer, at Forkliftaction.com.

When exposed to vibrations and shock from machinery, employees can suffer hand and arm injuries and long term exposure can lead to hand, wrist and shoulder aches and limited blood flow. Reduced grip force, less flexibility in the hands and arthritis are also possible.

Forklift operators should drive in a style that minimizes exposure to shock and vibration. They should drive slowly and handle loads carefully. Forklifts can be equipped with better tires and seats to provide comfort. Other solutions include changing driver routes and improving road conditions to fix potholes and road bumps.