Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) Report for California: A Mechanic Dies When Struck in the Head By a Forklift That Slipped Off a Jack

摘要

A 52 year-old mechanic died when struck in the head by a forklift that slipped off a jack. The victim was lying on a creeper replacing a leaking hose underneath the forklift when the incident occurred. The area of the shop yard where the forklift was being repaired had a slight incline. The victim blocked only one wheel of the forklift with a wooden block. The victim was working alone. A co-worker who witnessed the incident said he was unable to react in time to help the victim. The employer had no written Injury and Illness Prevention Program, written hazard job evaluations, or documented training programs for employees. The CA/FACE investigator determined that, in order to prevent future occurrences, employers, as part of their Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) should: (1) Ensure all jacked loads are properly supported before beginning work; (2) Ensure vehicles are on level floors before elevating them; and (3) Ensure all workers are properly trained and supervised in the safe use of tools in their trade.