The Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) has claimed a victory over workplace accidents after the smooth and successful execution of its 2nd Annual Safety Conference at Warwick University.

FLTA chairman Richard Baxter said the conference had aimed to help forklift users deal with the plethora of safety issues confronting them every day.

"It's little wonder that end users need help and advice given the breadth, depth and variety of issues facing forklift owners," he said.

The event was in part the answer to a call from end users for help in forklift safety, and the conference presented "practical solutions to real end user problems, set up at the request of real end users."

The extensive conference program covered many aspects of forklift safety and the safe handling of specific products and materials.

Jungheinrich UK stressed the importance of thorough workplace safety surveys. A thorough survey, they said, made it possible to decide what equipment should be chosen and what practices should be employed to avoid or minimise identified risks.

Brigade Electronics said statistics showed 43 per cent of serious forklift accidents involved reversing forklifts striking pedestrians. The company introduced delegates at the conference to 'broadband' - multi-frequency - sound, which tells pedestrians instantly and unambiguously, the accurate location of the alarm's source.

CMP Batteries warned and advised visitors about the risks of AC and DC power, and the manual handling of batteries and chemicals within, produced by or stored for use in the battery.

Calor Gas demonstrated best practice in the storage and use of LPG, and gave examples of fire precautions and the need for appropriate protective equipment and first aid.

"With the information they have gained here, delegates will be able to start implementing improved safety measures as soon as they return to their workplaces," said FLTA chief executive David Ellison.

"At the same time, the presentations and the delegates' reactions have raised further questions. As always, we are committed to tackling every key safety issue head on, and what we've discussed today will help to shape our work over the coming months," he added.