Forklift Safety for Canada

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Key Questions

The following key questions are answered in this module:

Will I be a qualified forklift operator after watching this forklift safety video?
No. This video is full of helpful information that will get you on your way, but you must receive additional training and your employer must determine that you're "competent" before you can operate a forklift at work.

What are some unique aspects of forklifts that can make them hazardous to operate?
They are very heavy, they can be unstable, they have rear-wheel steering (unlike a car's front-wheel steering), they have forks or other attachments, they may use potentially dangerous fuel or power sources, and they carry loads.

Can any forklift work safely in any environment?
No. Check the forklift's hazardous location designation to see if it can be operated in atmospheres that are flammable, combustible, or poisonous.

Why is it important to pay attention to the forklift's center of gravity?
Knowing where the center of gravity is, and keeping it where it should be, can help prevent instability and accidents.

What is the "stability triangle?"
A way to think of the forklift's center of gravity and forklift stability. If the forklift's center of gravity is kept within the stability triangle, the lift and its load will be stable (and not prone to tip).

What are some factors that influence the stability of a forklift and its stability triangle?
Load weight, load balance, load height, inclined or uneven surfaces, and momentum.

Is it necessary to perform an inspection before operating a forklift?
Yes, also perform inspections, with the engine off and with the engine on.

What should a forklift operator do if the forklift is rolling over or if items are falling onto the forklift?
The forklift's rollover guard is built to withstand heavy impacts, so it's best to stay in the cab and not to jump out.

Sample Video Transcript

Below is a transcript of the video sample provided for this module:

A stable forklift has a center of gravity that is low and close to the middle of the forklift, well within the Stability Triangle. Here are the factors that affect the center of gravity: Load weight is a major factor. As load weight increases, the center of gravity moves toward the load. Load balance affects the side-to-side location of the center of gravity. A load that is not centered will move the center of gravity to the side where the load is heavier. Load height is also a big influence on stability. The higher a load is raised, the more unstable the truck becomes. With a load raised high, it may only take a small bump, a slight turn, or a quick stop, to tip over the forklift. Inclined or uneven surfaces move the center of gravity in the direction of the downward slope. Momentum has a great influence on the truck when it is in motion. Acceleration will move the center of gravity toward the rear of the truck, and deceleration, such as when braking, will move the center of gravity toward the load. Turning will move the center of gravity toward the outside of the turn; the faster a turn is taken, the more unstable a truck becomes.