A
narrow-aisle stand-up lift truck was backing down a warehouse aisle with a
loaded pallet when the warehouse clerk in this incident walked into the aisle
YOUNG WAREHOUSE WORKER KILLED
BY BACKING FORKLIFT
An 18-year-old
warehouse receiving clerk was killed after a loaded forklift struck him in a
warehouse aisle. The clerk and the forklift operator were working together to
prepare newly received merchandise for storage and shipment.
After a morning break, the forklift operator drove into the
storage area, loaded the last pallet, and began backing down the aisle at a
slight angle. Looking over his shoulder,
the operator saw the warehouse clerk walking up the aisle toward him.
The operator yelled at the clerk, made eye contact, and hit the
brakes and tried to steer away. The forklift struck the warehouse clerk and
pinned him against a metal shelf.
First aid was provided while waiting for emergency responders. The
victim died on the way to the hospital.
CAUSE OF DEATH:
Severe blunt chest trauma
RECOMMENDATIONS:
• Forklift operators
must always look in the direction of travel and keep a clear view.
• Employers must ensure
that workers know to stay clear of operating forklifts.
• Employers should closely
supervise new workers to reinforce safe work practices.
ALWAYS REMEMBER:
WHEN AN EMPLOYEE IS KILLED
OR INJURED BY A PREVENTABLE WORKPLACE HAZARD, THIS IS NO ACCIDENT. IT MEANS THE EMPLOYER FAILED TO PROTECT
WORKERS FROM DANGERS THAT CAN CAUSE INJURY, ILLNESS OR, NEEDLESS DEATH