Health & Safety Protocols

Safety Frist: Core Principles

Safety is our top priority. Every service engineer must adhere to these core principles:

• No Compromises: Never take shortcuts when it comes to safety procedures

• Risk Assessment: Always assess risks before beginning work

• Right to refuse: You have the right to refuse unsafe work

• Certification: Maintain all required safety certifications

• Communication: Clearly communicate safety concerns to colleagues and management

• Continuous Learning: Saty updated on safety procedures and best practises.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always wear appropriate PPE for the task at hand:

Required PPE for All Service Activates:

• Safety glasses with side shields

• Steel-toes safety boots

• High-Visibility vest or clothing

• Work gloves appropriate to the task

• Hard hat when working around overhead hazards

Task-Specific PPE:

• Face Shield for grinding, cutting, or handling hazardous chemicals 

• Chemical-resistant gloves when handling batteries, hydraulic fluid, or other chemicals

• Hearing protection when noise levels exceed 85dB

• Respiratory protection when working with dusty components or chemicals with fumes

• Fall protection when working at heights above 4 feet/1.2 meters

Pre-Service Safety Checks:

Before beginning any service work:

Secure the area:

• Place safety cones around the work area
• Ensure adequate lighting
• Verify floor is clean, dry, and free of obstacles

Forklift Preparation:

• Park on level ground
• Lower forks to ground level
• Set parking brake
• Neutralize controls
• Turn off ignition and remove key

Tools and equipment check:

• Inspect all tools for damage
• Verify electrical tools are properly grounded or double insulated
• Ensure lifting equipment is rated for the load
• Check calibration dates on measurement tools

Lockout / Tagout Procedures

Proper lockout / Tagout (LOTO) procedures are essential to prevent unexpected energization:

Standard LOTO Procedure:

1. Notify affected employees
2. Shutdown the equipment
3. Isolate all energy sources
4. Apply lockout devices
5. Dissipate stored energy
6. Verify zero energy state
7. Perform service or maintenance
8. Safely restore energy when work is complete

Required LOTO Equipment:

• Personalised locks with single key
• ID tags with service engineers name and contact information
• Multiple-lock hasps for group work
• Battery terminal covers
• Hydraulic Line caps

Working at Heights

When working at heights:

• Always use appropriate fall protection for work above feet/1.2 meters
• Inspect ladders before each use
• Follow the 3-point contact rule (Two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand)
• Secure tools to prevent drops
• Never stand on forklift forks to reach heights
• Use properly rated lift platforms or scaffolding when necessary

Electric Forklift Battery Safety

Battery service presents specific hazards:

• Wear face shield, acid-resistant gloves, and apron
• Use insulated tools to prevent shorts
• Remove jewellery and metal objects
• Ensure proper ventilation to disperse hydrogen gas
• Have eyewash station and emergency shower nearby
• Follow proper lifting procedures (use battery handling equipment)

Hydraulic System Safety

When servicing hydraulic systems:

• Relieve pressure before disconnecting lines
• Use cardboard, not hands, to check for leaks
• Properly contain and dispose of hydraulic fluid
• Replace hoses at first sign of wear
• Use proper torque specifications for fittings

Tire Handling Safety

Tire service requires specific measures:

• Use proper handling equipment
• Verify rim components are compatible before assembly
• Inspect for damage before installation

Ergonomics for Service Engineers

Prevent musculoskeletal Injuries:

• Use proper lifting techniques (Bend knees, keep back straight)
• Get help for items over 50 lbs / 23KG
• Use material handling equipment when available
• Avoid awkward postures and extended reaches
• Take breaks to stretch and change positions
• Adjust work height to avoid bending and reaching
• Use anti-fatigue mats for extended standing

Emergency Procedures

Know what to do in emergency situations:

Medical Emergency:

• Call emergency services immediately
• Administer first aid if trained
• Do not move injured person unless in immediate danger
• Report indecent to supervisor as soon as possible

Fire Emergency:

• Evacuate area if fire cannot be safely controlled
• Use appropriate fire extinguisher (Class ABC for most forklift fires)
• Never use water on electrical or chemical fires
• Follow facility evacuation procedures

Chemical Exposure:

• Rinse affected area with water for at least 15 minutes
• Remove contaminated clothing
• Seek medical attention immediately
• Reference SDS for specific treatment information

Safety Documentation

Always have access to these critical documents:

• Equipment service manuals
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals
• Lockout/tagout procedures for specific equipment
• Company safety policies and procedures
• Accident report forms (online portal)
• Emergency contact information
• Completed Risk Assessments

Reporting Incidents and Near Misses

Always have access to these critical documents: