Pallet Truck Shop, one of the country’s chief providers of pallet trucks and other manual handling equipment to a wide range of sectors, has welcomed the news that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is looking at ways to reduce maximum pallet weights in a bid to cut the risk of injuries to drivers making tail-lift deliveries.
Aiming to reduce the maximum weight to 750kg, the move has been spearheaded by the Road Haulage Association. Pushing for this change for many months in order to make workplaces safer for all involved, it could help companies to combat the issue of large pay-outs due to injury or sick pay.
Reiterating the need for safe working conditions, Phil Chesworth from Pallet Truck Shop said, “The safety of staff is paramount for businesses, and this move can only be a positive move for the industry. Pallet trucks are one of the safest forms of machinery and offer exceptional performance while keeping workers safe. However a reduced weight limit may help to further minimise the chance of workplace injury, but the HSE must make sure that whatever they decide will be in the best interests of both workers and the industry as a whole.”
Pallets have increased in weight in recent years, and due to the rise in internet shopping, many businesses have seen a significant increase in the amount of pallets that need to be moved and delivered in a short period of time. Companies in the UK are estimated to pay around £12billion per year in sick pay, so if the HSE do reduce the limits, this could help to reduce risk and minimise costs associated with sick pay.
At the moment, there is no law specifying pallet weights, but it’s been reported that the HSE expect companies to conduct a risk assessment for drivers. Stating that they should consider all the risks surrounding moving heavy loads.