What is a critical safety practice regarding the forklift's key?

Removing the forklift key to prevent unauthorized use is a vital safety practice. This action helps ensure that only trained and authorized personnel can operate the forklift, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Unauthorized use can lead to hazardous situations, especially if an untrained individual attempts to drive or operate the forklift improperly.

By keeping the key secure and removing it when the forklift is not in use, you not only protect the equipment but also safeguard the entire workplace from potential accidents that could arise from improper operation. This practice promotes a culture of safety and accountability, ensuring that only qualified individuals are in control of potentially dangerous machinery.

Other options, such as leaving the key in the ignition, could lead to easy access for unauthorized individuals, thus increasing the risk of accidents. Giving the key to a coworker might create confusion about who is responsible for the forklift’s operation. Storing the key in a drawer may not be sufficient if the drawer is not secured, leaving the possibility for unauthorized access. Hence, removing the key is the most effective and prudent choice for safety.