How to Operate a Forklift Without a Load

Forks must be in a downward direction when parked and moving with no loads.

Operating a forklift comes with many responsibilities. You are responsible for moving loads, driving in a manner that is safe for those around you, including yourself, and operating the forklift correctly when there are no loads on the forks. Safely driving a lift truck with no loads prevents accidents and possible damage to the lift. Forklifts with no loads on the forks will handle differently from forks with loads.

Instructions

1. Inspect the forklift per the instructions from the company before getting on board. Check the forks to make sure that the forks are not bent. Parked forklifts should have the mast raised slightly and the tips of the forks resting on the ground.

2. Mount the forklift correctly. How you mount the lift will depend if it is a sit-down or stand-up lift truck. On the sit-down lift, fasten the seat belt. Stand-up lifts have no seat belts, but if the lift has a safety rope going from side-to-side on the back behind the driver to keep you secure inside, fasten the rope.

3. Start the lift truck. Adjust the mast and forks so that the forks are pointing in a downward direction. Adjust the mast so that the forks are four to six inches off the ground while angled down.

4. Move the forklift backwards only after looking in all directions and beeping the horn. Travel down aisles or express ways at a slow speed. OSHA doesn't have a recommended speed for operators, but it does say to drive at a speed that allows you to stop the truck in a safe manner in all conditions.

5. Slow down and stop before entering intersections. Beep the horn before proceeding. Without a load on the forks, your presence is harder to see by others since the forks enter the intersection low to the ground before the cab.

6. Travel up and down inclines with the forks in the same position when no loads are present. Before picking up a load, lower the mast and lift the forks up so that the forks are level and not angled up or down.

Tips & Warnings

• Forklift operators must be certified to operate a powered lift truck.

References

• United States Department of Labor: Operating the Forklift
• Safety Rules For Operation of Forklift Trucks