Australian Forklift Training recommend that all companies adopt a strict no mobile phones policy while operating. Mobile Phones, IPods and other distractions increase the likelihood of accidents occurring.
Australian Forklift Training observe that almost all experienced operators suffer from the same bad driving habits. A common bad habit is not making an effort to look behind them while reversing.
When another distraction such as a mobile phone is added, something important such as looking behind is either neglected completely, or given less attention.
According to Australian Forklift Training, no one should use a mobile phone while operating a forklift. Some companies require their operators to be in contact through phone at all times. In that case, operators must park the forklift before answering or taking calls.
As far as ipods, walkmans, or radio and CD players are concerned, the answer is simple. If the forklift did not come standard from the manufacturer with the radio or device fitted then it should not be there.
Forklifts are fitted with flashing lights, horns and sometimes reversing beepers to make them stand out to pedestrians.
Music and other noise can hide the sound of an approaching forklift and place the pedestrians at risk. It also makes the operator less likely to hear a pedestrian yelling or calling out to them.