Forklift Fatality
This forklift has several safety features, including an overhead
guard.. Employers must ensure that forklift operators are
trained to operate them safely.
What programs does the Department of Labor have in place to prevent forklift accidents?
Free training: Workshops, training and consultation in both English and Spanish.
Publications: An industry guide that discusses forklift operator training and the safe operation of
powered industrial trucks.
Investigation Process
What triggers a fatality or catastrophe investigation by
the N.C. Department of Labor?
• A worker’s death.
• Hospitalization of three or more employees.
• The department may also receive information of a
fatality or catastrophe from media reports or referrals
from other government agencies.
How is NCDOL notified?
• An employer must notify NCDOL within eight hours
of a worker’s fatality or the hospitalization of three
or more workers.
What will the investigation focus on?
• The investigation will usually be limited to the
events surrounding the accident unless observations
at the site indicate a broader investigation is needed.
What will happen during the investigation?
• An NCDOL investigator will go to the accident site
and collect physical evidence, including photographs.
• The investigator will interview employees, witnesses
and management officials about the accident to
determine its cause.
• Any violations of safety and health standards will be
noted and citations will be issued.
How long will the investigation take?
• An investigation can take anywhere from a few
weeks to six months, depending on the complexity
of the accident.
When are investigation results disclosed?
• Citations and penalties, if issued, can be released to
the public on the issuance date.
• Other contents of the file cannot be released until the
case is closed or final order on citations is rendered.
The Investigation
Investigators will seek to determine several factors,
including whether:
• Aisles were designated as travel paths for forklifts.
• Vehicles were operated at a safe speed.
• Only authorized personnel operated and maintained
forklifts.
• Employees avoided standing under raised forks.
• Dockboard and trailer were secured while loading
and unloading.
• Operators were trained in safe vehicle operation.
• Vehicles were parked with the forks lowered and
brakes set.
• Carbon monoxide produced by forklifts was moni-tored.
• Operators wore seat belts while operating a forklift.
Cherie Berry, Commissioner
N.C. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health Division
1101 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1101
www.nclabor.com
1-800-625-2267
Standards: 29 CFR 1910.178, Powered Industrial
Trucks
Industry Type: General Industry
Accident Type: Powered industrial truck accident
Statistical Data: In 2005, NCDOL investigated 80 work-place
fatalities.
