Transport operators in Northern Ireland could receive a surprise visit from the Health and Safety Executive this month, when the agency begins a week-long inspection programme focusing on forklift truck safety in the freight sector.
From 14 January, inspectors from HSE NI will visit operators to ensure they are taking action to control the risks from using FLTs in their premises.
FLTs are involved in around one quarter of all workplace transport accidents; inspectors will be looking for evidence of FLT operator training, general maintenance and thorough examinations, as well as safe systems of work.
“HSE NI will provide advice during the targeted visits, and take enforcement action against poor practices especially where workers lives are at risk,” says Karen Todd, inspector for HSE NI’s transport group.
