Consistent training and adherence to safety protocols can help reduce the number of forklift-related fatalities in the United States, according to a recent analysis of fatal accidents involving forklifts and pallet jacks.
The analysis was conducted by Michigan-based aftermarket parts supplier Intella Parts Co., LLC. Company leaders studied incident data from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration between 2017 and 2024 and found that there were 317 forklift-related fatalities during that time, most of which stemmed from preventable causes—including workers being crushed, stuck, or falling from elevated platforms.
Examining the reports of all fatalities involving a forklift, pallet jack, or industrial truck, company leaders said they found the root cause of most accidents was lack of training, poor visibility, or a failure to follow basic safety protocols.
The company presented the results in a blog post that also offers advice on preventing forklift-related accidents.
“We wanted to go beyond surface-level statistics and really understand where these accidents are happening and why,” Marcel VandenTop, Intella Parts’ President, said in a statement announcing the findings. “The results were clear: These tragedies are largely preventable with the right training and safeguards in place.”
Among the findings:
- Texas led the nation with 48 forklift-related fatalities.
- The most common causes of death included crushing/pinning, struck-by incidents, falls from height, and overturned forklifts.
- Many incidents involved a lack of safety training, poor pedestrian separation, or failure to follow standard procedures.
The company offered the following advice for those who operate or work around forklifts:
- Reinforce operator training. OSHA certification is a great start, but refresher training makes sure safe habits stick.
- Separate pedestrian and forklift traffic. Clear walkways, signage, and floor markings help everyone stay in their lane.
- Inspect equipment regularly. A daily walkaround can catch mechanical issues before they become deadly.
- Use seat belts. They’re not optional—and they work.
