Forklifts are essential tools on construction sites and in industries like manufacturing and warehousing. However, they’re also among the most dangerous pieces of equipment, causing thousands of injuries and nearly 100 deaths every year in the United States. For construction workers in California, the risks are even higher, with uneven terrain, heavy materials, and tight deadlines making accidents all too common.

In episode 101 of Work Comp Talk, host Carmen Ramirez takes a deep dive into the dangers of forklifts, sharing insights from a recent Wall Street Journal article that highlights the growing push to eliminate forklifts from some workplaces entirely. Companies like Tesla, Whirlpool, and Mercedes-Benz are adopting safer alternatives like robotic tuggers and autonomous vehicles, but many industries, especially construction, still rely heavily on forklifts to get the job done.