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31 Aug 2016
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26 Jun 2016
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23 Mar 2016
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27 Oct 2015
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Wayne Chornohus: A finger in the dike?
The ‘finger in the dike’ is a metaphor for many elements of modern life and, perhaps appropriately so, the Dutch may have that proverbial finger in a new strategy of graduated operator certification.
I am told there is a new system in Holland where a less intensive system of certification is available for people who only occasionally use a forklift and are not engaged in more stability sensitive operations.
My first altruistic thought was no, a full course of instruction of eight to 40 hours should be a minimum for even the most casual operation. After all, the forklift still has dangerous capabilities at any time, right?
14 Apr 2005
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Wayne Chornohus: Trouble in paradise
A major building products manufacturer reports that 57 per cent of all material damage is caused by forklifts. The late model, well-maintained forklifts of this large company are operated by experienced, certified operators. With an increase in the percentage of forklift operators who are trained, the aforementioned situation is occurring more frequently. Why are mature, well-trained people causing so much damage?
17 Mar 2005
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Wayne Chornohus: What, me worry?
A reader sent this comment: “A problem in Australia is the inconsistency of certification and training. There are some agencies where you can obtain a certificate in three hours.”
17 Feb 2005
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20 Jan 2005
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Wayne Chornohus: Safety starts with a quality forklift
Purchasing the right forklift can be very challenging. If buying new, beware of dealer numbers stating market share, reliability or low maintenance etc. The dealer or seller will tell you whatever he thinks will sell the truck.
2 Dec 2004
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Wayne Chornohus: Manufacturers – responsible or irresponsible?
Manufacturers wear many masks; they can be progressive and regressive. On one hand, they build some marvellous machines and products; on the other, they incorporate inferior, dangerous features. Almost every manufacturer deals in sleight of hand and illusion to help sell their product, ignoring or hiding weaknesses to the detriment of the end user.
14 Oct 2004
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16 Sep 2004
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Wayne Chornohus: Sound the alarm!
Reversing alarms can be very effective in some situations - and very ineffective in others.
Back-up alarms are necessary on many types of vehicle where the operator must reverse with his vision impaired.
Many trainers and managers believe that back-up alarms are required on all forklifts.
Canadian regulations state: "Mobile equipment in which the operator cannot directly, or by mirror or other effective device, see immediately behind the machine, must have an automatic audible warning device."
This means that if an operator can see directly behind him, he doesn't have to have an alarm.
What a great regulation - it makes sense in the real world.
19 Aug 2004
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Wayne Chornohus: Mirror, mirror, once installed - are you really safe at all?
Mirrors have the power to deceive us, to give us a false sense of security. Some companies regulate the use of mirrors and some regulatory bodies comment on their use.
When I do on-site safety audits, I watch the operators to see how they use their mirrors. If they use shoulder checks, as well as mirrors, when turning and driving in pedestrian areas, then they should be able to keep using those mirrors.
- Read more -
22 Jul 2004
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24 Jun 2004
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