Simulation-Based, Safety Training Program for Lift Truck Operators Set to Reduce Injuries

The lift truck, also known as a fork lift, is the unsung hero of many industries. Fork lifts are found everywhere from construction sites to retail industries to manufacturing facilities to transportation organizations. Fork lifts prove invaluable workhorses -- and so do the operators of these vehicles.

Lift truck operators are in demand and there are many lift trucks in operation across the country. Without proper training and certification to operate a lift truck, accidents may be more prevalent.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that over 94,000 injuries and fatalities are attributed to fork lift operation every year in the United States. According to research and statistics, the main cause of fork lift fatalities is tipovers. The other causes are being crushed between vehicle and a surface or crushed between two vehicles, struck or run over by a forklift, struck by falling material, and falling from platform on the forks. OSHA reports also indicate that 70 percent of accidents could have been prevented with proper safety training and policies.

Recognizing the important need to promote greater safety awareness and training regarding lift truck operation, NSC Safetyworks™ Lift Truck was developed. It combines leading edge videogame technology with interactive training techniques to produce a breakthrough, simulation-based, safety training program for new and experienced lift truck operators. This engaging, effective and affordable software provides operators a way to experience "real-world" lift truck operations -- and mistakes -- without endangering lives or property.

This software program can simulate the operations of several classes of lift trucks. Trainees operate the lift truck through five task-based lessons in a virtual warehouse and outdoor environment. In each lesson, trainees apply the skills they learn to execute everyday tasks and react to typical obstacles and conditions safely. Trainees receive immediate feedback, in real time, increasing awareness of their personal performance compared to best safety practices. After completing the lessons, trainees take a cumulative exam where their performance is tracked and recorded.

NSC Safetyworks™ Lift Truck is an innovative, cost-effective complement to traditional lift truck operator training for OSHA compliance. It is designed to run on current PCs and video cards (for complete hardware and software requirements, go to safetyworks.nsc.org). Trainees control the virtual lift truck using a standard keyboard. Optionally, an off-the-shelf steering wheel can be purchased independently to create an even more realistic experience.

This new software is the product of collaboration between the National Safety Council® (NSC®) and Etcetera Edutainment. Product information is available at safetyworks.nsc.org and orders can be placed by calling NSC customer relations at 800-621-7619.