2026-10-29 · equipment-safety · both

Can eye contact alone protect pedestrians from forklifts?

A practical huddle on separating pedestrians from forklift traffic and checking the controls in use.

Published by Daily Safety Moment · Updated:

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Huddle script: Eye contact is not the whole plan

Myth: If a forklift driver and pedestrian make eye contact, that alone protects the pedestrian. OSHA recommends separating forklift traffic from pedestrians where possible. Eye contact, when possible, is one reminder alongside other precautions. If pedestrians cross a forklift's planned route, the driver should stop and wait until they pass. Drivers should not move without a clear view of travel; pedestrians should stand clear of operating forklifts. OSHA: Pedestrian Traffic

Comprehension check: What should a forklift driver do when pedestrians cross the planned route? Stop and wait until the pedestrians pass.

Controls to consider

Adaptable planning prompts: With workers, consider separating forklift and pedestrian routes where possible, including walkways and permanent railings or other protective barriers. For blind spots, OSHA recommends a spotter; drivers should sound the horn at blind corners, doorways and aisles. OSHA: Pedestrian Traffic

OSHA's control hierarchy emphasizes engineering solutions, including elimination or substitution, before safe work practices and administrative controls, with PPE last. Discuss feasible options with workers and verify their effectiveness. OSHA: Hazard Prevention and Control

Discussion questions and actions

Adapt these prompts to your work area, whether you operate a forklift, visit a warehouse, or arrange deliveries.

  • Where might a pedestrian encounter a forklift or a blind corner today?
  • Which route or barrier changes could separate people from forklift traffic?
  • What are our local stop-work and no-retaliation procedures, and how can everyone confirm them?
  • Identify a crossing or blind spot with the people who use it.
  • Choose a feasible separation or other control and identify any interim protection needed.
  • Assign an owner and target due date for the action; agree how to check progress.

Verification question: Once the control is in place, how will we check that it is installed and used correctly and is effective? Close the loop: Who will report the result back to the people who use the route, and when?

Sources

  1. Powered Industrial Trucks: Pedestrian Traffic — OSHA. Accessed 2026-10-29. osha.gov
  2. Safety Management: Hazard Prevention and Control — OSHA. Accessed 2026-10-29. osha.gov

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