The Fork Lift Truck Association has raised concerns over two fatal accidents that occurred in similar circumstances.
The separate tragedies both involved trained operators who had parked their vehicles but failed to fully apply the handbrake. In each case the load had been left at chest height and not lowered to the floor. The trucks, which had been parked on an incline rolled forward, crushing the operators to death.
David Ellison, chief executive of the FLTA, said: “Whatever the time demands upon operators, safety is always a priority. Just a few careless moments can have fatal consequences.”
Workplace transport is responsible for about a quarter of all UK health and safety fatalities, with annual statistics reporting 70 fatalities and 2,500 major accidents.
The FTLA said it is reminding employers about the importance of regular refresher training when it is required.
