Loading and unloading machinery involves risks that must be assessed and mitigated. According to a document on loading and unloading procedures from 2005-2010 in Washington State, there were 12 fatal workplace incidents during loading or unloading, with forklifts and cranes involved in 6 cases. The document provides guidance on assessing hazards, communication, equipment inspection, and using spotters to load and unload safely. It emphasizes planning routes and controlling loads to prevent dropped equipment from causing damage, injuries or downtime.