Working in any industrial setting comes with its share of risks. However, operating heavy machinery like forklifts present some of the largest hazards. As such, it’s crucial that individuals are not only aware of what could happen, but also how to respond should they happen to get hurt on the job. These are some of the most common injuries you can get by operating a forklift and what each of them could mean for your career.
Neck and Back Pain
Since forklifts experience a lot of vibration when in motion, operators often experience a lot of strain on their back or neck areas. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain in these regions, which increases their risk of developing further issues later on in life. Sitting for too long without taking a break or adopting poor posture can also contribute to this condition.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are also likely should the forklift rollover or bump into something. This is due to the physical shock of coming to an abrupt halt. In these cases, operators can easily hit their heads along the machine’s frame and suffer a concussion. It’s even been known to sustain a few cuts and bruises. This is why it’s highly discouraged to operate a forklift while tired or distracted.
Shoulder Strain
Another common type of injury you can get by operating a forklift is shoulder strain. When you’re repeatedly performing actions like steering and shifting a gear stick, it can create tension in your shoulders. Eventually, this tension turns into strain, and later, damage to the muscles. Fortunately, breaks and frequent stretching can help alleviate this.
Knee Strain
The same could be true for your knees and leg tendons. Repeatedly moving the brake or acceleration pedals can put added strain on your knees just like steering does on your shoulders. This can lead you to develop some mobility issues later on in life. As such, it’s highly recommended that you request to use a knee brace while at work to limit excessive twisting of your legs.
If you happen to suffer any of these injuries on the job, it’s crucial that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may even be able to file for workers’ compensation as a result of a forklift incident. Doing so now can ensure you’re cared for in the future and, in some cases, even reduce dangers like these in the long run.
