Incident Insight: Lessons from the Floor – April Safety Highlights
- Kinsey Donner, CSP
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
At RAE Corporation, safety is a shared responsibility, and it’s important we all stay informed, vigilant, and proactive.
Below are two recent safety-related incidents and an update on our new PPE vending machine rollout. Please take a moment to review and reflect on the key takeaways.
Forklift Injury – 4/24/2025
A forklift operator was moving a pallet of sheet metal parts when several parts shifted and fell off. The operator properly stopped, applied the parking brake, and exited the forklift, but then attempted to restack the parts by hand while the pallet was still suspended in the air.
As they placed the last part back on the stack, several pieces at the front of the pallet fell, pinning the operator’s legs between two pallets. Thankfully, two nearby team members were able to free the operator, who sustained only minor aches and pains.
Key Safety Reminders:
Always lower forklift loads completely to the ground before exiting the equipment.
Keep loads secured against the backrest during transport.
Be aware of pinch points and never place yourself where you could become pinned or trapped.
This incident is currently under investigation to determine the root cause and reinforce safe practices.
Overhead Crane Near Miss – 4/23/2025
A team was preparing to rig a sheet metal roof panel when another overhead crane’s bridge unexpectedly contacted the crane they were about to use. The impact caused the crane to shift roughly four feet. Thankfully, no one was injured.
Key Safety Reminders:
Plan your travel path when operating cranes.
Watch for people, other cranes, and physical obstacles.
If an incident occurs, stop immediately and lower the load if it’s safe.
If lowering the load is unsafe, barricade the area to protect others from entering.
This near miss is under review and will help guide future crane operation procedures.
PPE Vending Machines – Now Live
We’ve installed new PPE vending machines in the following locations:
Final Assembly South Bay
By the Coil Shop stairs
South Break Room (RAE South)
These machines are being stocked with essential PPE items, and adjustments are ongoing. If you experience any issues or notice something missing, please contact the Safety Department.
We appreciate your patience as we fine-tune this process to better serve our team and keep everyone safe.
Let’s keep looking out for each other. Safety is a team effort!
If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Safety Department.
Kinsey Donner, CSP
EHS Manager
(918) 861-9539
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