Epidemiology of forklift fatalities

Background: Every year, about 120 fatal work injuries result from operating or working near forklifts. Recent data show that these fatalities are on the rise. In addition, the powered industrial truck standard is the standard Federal OSHA cites most often during inspections in a number of different industries.

Methods: Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries data for 2005 were used to compile information on worker fatalities involving forklifts. A number of variables were reviewed, including occupation, industry, and demographic characteristics of the fatally injured worker and circumstances surrounding the incident (activity of the worker at the time, how the incident occurred, location of the incident, and other objects or equipment involved). The calculation of fatality rates was also pursued.

Results: Manufacturing and construction had the highest totals, accounting for 28 and 22 percent of the total, respectively. As for occupation, laborers and hand material movers, construction trade workers, and industrial truck and tractor operators each comprised about 15 percent of the total. In about thirty percent of the cases, the fatally injured worker was operating the lift at the time of the incident. Being struck by a falling object was the most frequent fatal event.

Conclusion: In addition to targeting forklift operators, prevention efforts must also be directed towards workers who repair lifts, those who load and unload lifts, those riding on or working from forklifts, and others working in the area of forklifts.