Perceptions and Attitudes Toward Workplace Transport Risks: A Study of Industrial Lift Truck Operators in a London Authority

ABSTRACT

Workplace transport risks remain the second largest cause of work-related fatal and major injuries in the UK. In the period 2004–2005, of the 5,427 workplace transport injuries, 68 were fatal and industrial lift trucks were associated with 24% of accidents. This study aimed to quantify risk perceptions and attitudes of lift truck operators for workplace transport risks and to ascertain opinions on common accidents, risk factors, and control measures. The cross-sectional study design with a postal questionnaire collected data in a population of lift truck operators (n = 140). Questions related to training and experience; perception of risks; safety attitudes, awareness, and knowledge; and safety responsibility. A response rate of 61% (n = 86) indicated lift truck operators had a high perception of workplace transport risks. Common lift truck incidents were considered “very serious” while respondents demonstrated a good knowledge of accident risk factors and control measures. Greater support was called for from employers and regulatory authorities to improve workplace safety. Recommendations include future safety initiatives for lift truck operators. These may be useful to organisations and enforcing authorities charged with safety obligations.

KEYWORDS:

• lift truck
• lift truck operator
• workplace transport

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the management of the London Borough of Redbridge for access to data and support for the study. They are grateful to Mr John Swain, Principal Environmental Health Officer, for technical assistance and also to all the businesses in Redbridge that took part in the survey.

Notes

*Percentages in bold indicate the correct response.