Top 5 Forklift Safety Mistakes – And How to Avoid Them on Your Site

Forklifts Save Time — But Can Cost Lives Without Safety

Forklifts are essential tools in warehouses, factories, and construction sites across Ireland. They improve efficiency—but without proper training and awareness, they become one of the most dangerous machines on any site.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) regularly reports injuries and fatalities linked to forklift misuse. Most of these incidents are preventable. As a site manager, logistics coordinator, or employer, you're legally responsible under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act to ensure proper forklift safety and training.

In this post, we highlight the top 5 forklift safety mistakes seen on Irish worksites—and more importantly, how to prevent them.

🚨 Section 1: The Top 5 Forklift Safety Mistakes

1. Untrained or Improperly Certified Operators

Operating a forklift without proper training or certification is not only dangerous—it’s illegal in Ireland.
✅ Solution: Ensure every operator has completed a certified RTITB forklift training course and attends regular refresher sessions.

2. Overloading or Poor Load Handling

Exceeding weight limits or failing to balance loads can cause tip-overs, dropped goods, and serious injuries.
✅ Solution: Train operators on load capacity, centre of gravity, and proper stacking techniques—essential topics in any accredited forklift course.

3. Limited Visibility and Blind Spots

Obstructed views, tight corners, and dimly lit spaces increase the risk of collisions and pedestrian accidents.
✅ Solution: Use mirrors, spotters, and proper warehouse lighting, and teach operators to never drive with an obstructed view.

4. Speeding or Reckless Driving

Pressure to meet tight deadlines can lead to careless operation—sharp turns, speeding, or ignoring site protocols.
✅ Solution: Set and enforce speed limits, encourage a safety-first culture, and discipline unsafe behavior consistently.

5. Skipping Daily Maintenance Checks

Worn brakes, faulty hydraulics, or damaged forks are silent threats on your site.
✅ Solution: Require daily pre-use inspections and ensure all forklifts receive regular servicing based on manufacturer guidelines.

🛡️ Section 2: Staying Compliant & Safe in 2025

HSA inspections and insurance requirements are becoming more rigorous. Here's what employers must do:

• Provide certified forklift training for all operators

• Keep accurate training and refresher records

• Conduct and document regular forklift maintenance

• Perform risk assessments and toolbox talks

• Use only accredited training providers

Forklift training should be role-specific, updated regularly, and led by experienced instructors.

✅ Section 3: How Ireland Training & Testing Can Help

At Ireland Training & Testing, we deliver expert forklift training in Dublin and across Ireland. Whether you're running a small warehouse or managing a large logistics team, our practical training helps reduce risk and improve efficiency.

🔧 Our Forklift Training Services:

• Counterbalance, Reach Truck & Pivot Steer Certification

• Beginner & Refresher Courses

• On-Site or In-Centre Options

• Fully RTITB Certified – Recognised for HSA & insurance compliance

We also offer Safe Pass, Manual Handling, and MEWP training, helping you build a full-site safety programme.

👉 View Upcoming Forklift Training Courses

📞 Final Call to Action

Don't let avoidable mistakes put your team—or your business—at risk.
Invest in certified forklift training that delivers real results.

➡️ Contact us at info@irelandtt.com or WhatsApp 087 093 0808
🌐 Visit www.irelandtt.com to explore course dates in Dublin, Cork, and across Ireland.