Forklifts are a staple in warehouses and industrial sites, but they come with serious safety risks if not handled properly. Accidents can happen fast, especially in busy areas where workers and forklifts share the same space. That’s where red and blue safety lights come in. 

These lights make forklifts more visible, helping to prevent collisions by warning pedestrians and other drivers when a truck is moving. Simple but effective, they add an extra layer of awareness, making the workplace safer for everyone.

As leading forklift truck suppliers, we’re going to share everything there is to know on red and blue safety lighting and how they contribute towards the safety of forklift drivers.

Understanding Forklift Safety Lights

Forklift safety lights are designed to keep workplaces safer by making forklifts more visible to those nearby. When a forklift is in motion, these lights project bright beams onto the floor, giving pedestrians and other drivers a clear warning of its presence. 

This is especially useful in noisy environments where forklifts can be hard to hear or in areas with blind spots. By adding a visual signal, these lights help reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall awareness.

Red and blue safety lights serve different purposes but work together to improve safety. Red lights are fixed to the sides of a forklift and create a “halo zone”, a bright line on the floor marking a safe distance that pedestrians should avoid. This helps prevent people from standing too close, reducing the risk of injuries caused by sudden turns or rear-end swings. 

Blue lights on the other hand are positioned at the front and back of the forklift, casting a bright spot or arrow onto the ground. This warns pedestrians and other operators that a forklift is approaching, giving them time to react and move out of the way.

Benefits of Implementing Red & Blue Safety Lights

Red and blue safety lights make it easier for pedestrians to spot a moving forklift, even in busy or dimly lit areas. The bright beams on the floor act as a clear warning, reducing the chance of someone accidentally walking into the path of a truck. 

Since electric forklifts are almost silent, these lights provide a much-needed visual alert, helping to prevent collisions and keeping workers safer on site.

For operators, these lights also improve visibility by highlighting movement and potential hazards. This is especially useful when reversing or carrying large loads that block the driver’s view. In addition, using safety lighting supports industry best practices and can help businesses meet workplace safety regulations. 

Whilst not always a legal requirement, they show a obligation to safer operations, which is good for both employees and employers.

Installation and Maintenance Guidelines

Installing red and blue forklift safety lights properly is key to making them as effective as possible. Positioning matters. Red lights should be mounted on the sides to create a clear safety zone, whilst blue lights should be placed at the front and back to project a visible warning spot on the floor. The distance and angle should be adjusted too. This is so the lights remain bright and noticeable without being a distraction. 

A poorly placed light won’t provide the right level of protection. Therefore, taking the time to install them correctly is a must.

Once in place, regular checks are essential to keep them working properly. Forklifts go through a lot of wear and tear. Lights can also shift, dim, or stop working altogether. A quick check before each shift helps catch any issues early, preventing unnecessary risks. 

Replacing faulty bulbs, ensuring secure mounts, and keeping lights free from dirt and damage all help maintain their effectiveness. This makes sure they continue to do their job in keeping the workplace safe.

Red and blue forklift safety lights are a simple yet effective way to reduce accidents and create a safer working environment. By improving visibility for both operators and pedestrians, they help prevent collisions and keep workplaces running smoothly. To make sure your fleet is equipped with the right safety lighting, H&F Lift Trucks can help. Whether you need advice on installation or high-quality forklift safety solutions, get in touch with our team today.