Tomorrow sees the return of Safetember, the FLTA's annual safety campaign and it's possibly the 30 most important days of the year for the Association, its Members, their customers and the wider industry.

FLTA chief executive Peter Harvey MBE explains: "Now in its 10th year, our Safetember campaign helps increase awareness of the dangers associated with fork lift truck operations and sharing ways to enhance safety.

"This year marks a significant milestone in the campaign and while some may celebrate such an achievement, it's clear that there's still much work to be done."

According to the HSE, fork lift trucks account for 1 in 4 workplace transport accidents: making them more dangerous that LGVs and HGVs.

And these accidents are not easy to overlook. Every week day, 5 workers in the UK are seriously injured or killed in incidents involving fork lift trucks.

"But these accidents are anything but 'everyday' for the injured, their colleagues, their families, their friends..." continues Peter.

"The resulting injuries - including dislocations, degloving, amputations and long-bone fractures - change lives. In an instant. And there's no industry that's immune from this..."

That's why this year's message is:

You don't walk away from a fork lift accident.

"Because you don't." adds Peter. "The very size and nature of fork lift trucks that make them the true workhorse of British industry means there are no minor injuries.

"If you are involved in an accident, you will be seriously injured and it will change your life forever... as well as the lives of everyone around you.

"The deaths and injuries caused by fork lift trucks can ruin lives and businesses. And, even when an incident does not cause injury, it can still mean costly damage to lift trucks, buildings, fittings and goods."

Because of this, the FLTA is stressing the importance that accidents and incidents (however small) are never overlooked.

Peter explains: "Instead, they should serve as a warning - creating an opportunity to learn and improve.

"And that's where we need your support. Whether you're a fork lift truck dealer, training body, ancillary supplier, manufacturer or the owner/operator of fork lifts, we'd like you to spread this important message to your colleagues, friends and families.

"After all, it only takes an instant to change a life. And there are so many ways you can get involved."

The FLTA website is packed with easy-to-implement and affordable ways to get behind the campaign, including:

• Efficient ways to safeguard your workers on foot from fork lift trucks
• Free resources for your next toolbox talk, including emotionally engaging videos and posters
• Top tips for operators, pedestrians and managers

Plus, there are details of this year's National Fork Truck Safety Conference, which will take place on Wednesday 20th September at the Heart of England Events and Conference Centre in Coventry.

To find out more please contact us!

The Fork Lift Truck Association
Peter Harvey MBE
P: +44 0163 527 7577
E: send an email
W: www.fork-truck.org.uk