Forklift Operation & Safety Protocols Flashcards

When traveling on a ramp or incline with a loaded forklift, which direction should you travel?

Answer: Drive forward up and reverse down

With a loaded forklift, always drive forward (load first) up a ramp and reverse down to keep the load stable and prevent tipping.

What is the maximum safe travel speed for a forklift in a pedestrian area?

Answer: 5 mph

OSHA and NSC guidelines recommend a maximum of 5 mph in pedestrian areas to allow adequate stopping distance and reaction time.

Which action is required before leaving a forklift unattended?

Answer: Lower forks fully, neutralize controls, set brake, and remove key

NSC requires operators to fully lower the forks, neutralize controls, set the parking brake, and remove the key when leaving a forklift unattended.

A forklift operator notices the load is heavier than the rated capacity. What should they do?

Answer: Refuse the lift and notify a supervisor

Operators must never exceed the rated capacity — exceeding it causes tip-overs; the correct action is to refuse the lift and contact a supervisor.

What does the load center distance refer to on a forklift capacity plate?

Answer: Horizontal distance from the fork face to the load's center of gravity

Load center is the horizontal distance from the fork face (heel) to the load's center of gravity, typically 24 inches for standard pallets.

When should a forklift operator sound the horn?

Answer: At intersections, blind corners, and whenever visibility is obstructed

Operators must sound the horn at intersections, blind corners, and any obstructed area to warn pedestrians and other operators of their approach.

Which of the following correctly describes safe forklift fork height during normal travel?

Answer: Forks 6–10 inches above the floor, mast tilted back

Forks should be 6–10 inches off the ground with the mast tilted back to improve stability and ground clearance during travel.