Warehouse Safety · 2–5 min toolbox talk
Forklift Pedestrian Safety
A safety talk focused on forklift pedestrian hazards, including blind spots, intersections, backup alarms, marked walkways, eye contact, speed, and keeping pedestrians separated from equipment.
Use this printed script for your tailgate or toolbox talk. Read through the hazards, script, and questions with your crew.
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“Forklift Pedestrian Safety”
Key Hazards
- Pedestrians struck by forklifts or loads
- Blind spots around loads, corners, racks, and doorways
- Forklifts backing or turning in tight areas
- Pedestrians walking through equipment operating zones
- Loads blocking the operator’s view
- Poor communication between operators and pedestrians
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Forklift pedestrian safety depends on both operators and pedestrians staying aware. A forklift can be quiet, heavy, and difficult to stop quickly.
Pedestrians should stay in designated walkways when available and avoid walking through forklift operating zones, loading areas, dock areas, or blind corners.
Operators should slow down near intersections, doors, racks, corners, and pedestrian areas. Horns, lights, alarms, and eye contact help, but they do not replace control.
Pedestrians should not assume the operator sees them. Loads, masts, racks, parked equipment, and building corners can block visibility.
Eye contact or clear acknowledgement should be used before crossing near a forklift. If there is any doubt, pedestrians should stop and let the forklift pass.
Operators should travel with the load low and under control. If the load blocks the view, the operator should use safe travel methods according to training and procedure.
No one should stand or walk under raised forks or loads. Loads can shift, fall, or lower unexpectedly.
Safe forklift pedestrian control depends on separation, visibility, speed control, communication, and never taking shortcuts through active equipment areas.
Safety Reminders
- Use marked pedestrian walkways when available.
- Stay out of forklift operating zones unless authorized.
- Make eye contact before crossing near forklifts.
- Operators should slow down near intersections and blind spots.
- Do not walk under raised forks or loads.
- Keep loads low and controlled.
- Report blocked walkways or unsafe traffic patterns.
Ask the Crew
- Where do forklifts and pedestrians interact today?
- Are walkways and intersections clearly marked?
- Could loads or racks block visibility?
- Are operators slowing down in pedestrian areas?
- Do pedestrians know how to safely cross forklift paths?