Forklift Instability

Question 1

What are some things that may cause a forklift to tip over sideways (lateral instability)?

Answer 1

• Unevenly distributed load
• Turning at an unsafe speed
• Driving over uneven surfaces
• Driving to fast
• Operating on a sloping surface

Question 2

What are some things that may cause a forklift to tip forward lengthways (longitudinal instability)?

Answer 2

• Overloading
• Severe braking
• Unevenly distributed load
• Hitting an overhead structure
• Driving too fast, including in reverse
• Driving over uneven surfaces
• Load not positioned against the heel of the fork arms

Question 3

If you lose control of the forklift, what are 3 things you should do?

Answer 3

• Remain in the forklift
• Try to lean away from the point of impact
• Brace yourself until the forklift is still/stopped and it is safe for you to climb out
• *DO NOT try to jump from the forklift whilst it’s moving**