Main Page | See live article | Alphabetical index

Forklift



      A forklift that is extended halfway ()

A forklift is a powered industrial truck used to hoist and transport materials by means of steel forks inserted under the load. The forklift was invented in 1917 by a transmission manufacturing company in order to facilitate the movement of heavy automotive subassemblies. It has since become an indispensable piece of equipment in many manufacturing and warehousing operations.

A typical forklift may be generally described as follows:

Forklift Safety

Forklifts are rated for loads at a specified maximum weight and a specified forward center of gravity. This information is located on a nameplate provided by the manufacturer, and loads must not exceed these specifications.

An important aspect of forklift operation is its rear-wheel steering. While this increases maneuverability in tight cornering situations, it differs from a driver’s traditional experience with other wheeled vehicles (from tricycles to tractors) and must be taken well into account.

Another critical characteristic of the forklift is its instability; the forklift and load must be considered a unit, with a continually varying center of gravity with every movement of the load. A forklift must never negotiate a turn at speed with a raised load, where centrifugal and gravitational forces may combine to cause a disastrous tipover accident. A forklift must not be used as a personnel elevator without the fitting of specific safety equipment. In the U.S., additional safety considerations are detailed in the applicable OSHA rules, and lift truck operators must be trained and certified.

External links: