Safe Warehouse Day on 6 February 2020 brings the impressive story of Lars van Rode. Over 15 years ago, he lost his leg in a forklift accident. He tells about the circumstances and about his life that changed radically with one blow that night. His message: "We need more heroes in the workplace."
It is quarter past four in the morning on Wednesday 16 June 2004 when 25-year-old Lars van Rode is working on his electric pallet truck. He picks up a tall pallet and drives backwards towards the frozen food warehouse. Before driving into the warehouse, he pokes his head through the plastic flap curtain to check if the road is clear. When he sees nothing and continues reversing, he still hears a forklift honking loudly. He still tries to intervene, but a collision is inevitable.
Van Rode's left leg was damaged beyond repair in the collision. After ten months and many operations, the surgeon sees no other option than amputation. The Belgian student has to continue his life with a left leg severed below his knee. After a long rehabilitation period, he gets his life back on track. For 12 years, he holds the position of alderman, or councillor, in his hometown Lummen. He also tells his life story to make people in business aware of the risks they face.
Keeping each other on their toes
On Safe Warehouse Day, Van Rode tells how the accident could have happened. He tells what the impact has been on his life, but also on that of his family and his colleagues. He also shares his insights. Among other things, he advocates a culture where colleagues keep each other on their toes. "During a sports match, this is quite normal. On the football pitch, team members pep each other up. They keep each other on their toes, give tips and warn when danger threatens. Why doesn't that happen in the workplace? We need more heroes who do. Heroes who want to work safely."
Want to know more about the Safe Warehouse Day on 6 February 2020? Check outwww.dagvanhetveiligemagazijn.nl.
