OSHA recently investigated a fatality where a stand-up forklift operated was pinned between the horizontal shelf of pallet racking and the operator’s area of the forklift. It appeared the operator was driving backwards, but not looking in the direction of travel.
Recommendations to reduce the chance of injury from a forklift-pallet racking incident include:
1. Modify the height of shelving so that the operator of a forklift would not strike or be able to get caught under the shelf.
2. Install posts or bumpers to prevent the forklift from driving under or striking shelving.
3. Train and evaluate all forklift operators.
For more information and recommendations, please read the OSHA Bulletin http://www.osha.gov/dts/shib/shib072709.html