CAPABILITIES AND LIMITS

The safe and efficient use of a forklift requires skill and alertness horn the operator. For the majority of materials-handling operations, the forklift excels, because it is self-propelled and requires only the operator to control the lifting, transporting, stacking, and unstacking. To develop the skill required for safe and efficient forklift operations, you must have an understanding of the makeup, capabilities, and limitations of the forklift, and see that it is maintained in good mechanical condition.

In the selection of a forklift, consider the performance, lift height, power, and capacity; also consider the available space and area the forklift must operate in. NOTE: For complete information on the capabilities of your forklift, refer to the operator's manual provided by the manufacturer.

Lift Height

Forklifts are available in standard models that have lift heights of up to 210 inches. The lift height of a forklift selected for an operation depends on how high the material is stored and the overall height of the forklift, with the mast lowered, that must clear door casings, overhead obstructions, and other building limitations. Also, there are restrictions and limitations on lift height during unloading and loading of cargo vessels, trucks, tractor-trailers, and so forth.

Capacity

The capacity of the forklift must be equal to the task. For this reason, the weight of each load must be known before a lift is made.

The center of balance is a critical factor for capacity. On most forklifts, the center of balance (C/B) is under the operator's seat, as shown in figure 8-15. When a load is lifted a combined center of balance (C C/B) is created, as shown in figure 8-16. When the load is raised, the C C/B changes, as shown in figure 8-17.

A forklift is designed to lift its maximum capacity with the load centered on the forks, not with the tip of the forks.

CAUTION

Never lift a load with the load balanced on the tips of the forks.

You should know where the center of balance (C/B) is before trying to lift any load. The C/B of the load should be as far back on the forks as possible. If the C/B

Figure 8-15.-Center of balance (C/B) for the forklift and load.

Figure 8-16.-Combined center of balance (C C/B).

Figure 8-17.-Movement of the combined center of balance as the load is raised.

is on one side, as shown in figure 8-18, the load may flip off the forks and land on its side once you lift it. The C/B of the load should be placed directly in front of the C/B of the forklift, as shown in figure 8-19. Additionally, the C/B should be centered and placed as far back as possible on the forks.

OPERATING TECHNIQUES

Before operating a forklift, you must have proper authorization and possess a thorough understanding of the operator's manual and safety precautions. If you have very little experience in operating forklifts, make sure a qualified operator guides you through at least several operating and load-handling operations before

Figure 8-18.-Top view of how the combined center of balance moves with the C/B of the load.

Figure ^8-19.-How the C/B of the load should be centered

attempting to operate the forklift on your own. Basic education in safe operation and load-handling techniques is absolutely necessary to prepare you for proper operation and enables you to anticipate the unexpected.

NOTE: A forklift is only as safe as its operator. Only authorized, properly trained licensed personnel are permitted to operate it.