When faced with wet or slippery surfaces, which action is most appropriate?

Operating equipment with caution and reducing speed is the appropriate action when faced with wet or slippery surfaces. This approach minimizes the risk of losing control of the forklift, which can lead to accidents or injuries. By reducing speed, the operator allows for better maneuverability and reaction time, which is crucial on unstable surfaces. It also reduces the stopping distance, making it easier to stop safely if necessary.

While some may consider increasing speed to minimize time spent on slippery surfaces, this can actually enhance the risk of skidding or accidents. Postponing work until conditions improve is an option in some scenarios, but it may not always be feasible or practical depending on operational schedules. Maintaining standard operating speed regardless of conditions is definitely unsafe, especially on slippery surfaces where traction is compromised. Therefore, cautious operation by reducing speed is the best practice to ensure safety in such environments.