How to Drive a Fork Lift on Grass

Forklift tires are designed to operate on hard and smooth surfaces.

Driving a forklift on grass can be tricky because the ground can be wet or uneven. Normal forklift tires are designed to operate on hard and smooth surfaces, such as asphalt or concrete. However, forklift drivers may find driving the machine over grass unavoidable due to the cargo location. Laying down wooden tracks to drive on is a cost efficient alternative to buying larger tires for a forklift.

Things You'll Need

• Four-by-8 inch wooden boards
• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Measure the from the center of the front-left wheel on the forklift to the center of the front-right wheel on the forklift using a tape measure.

2. Create a wooden track for each wheel by laying 4- by 8-inch wooden boards over the grass in a straight path to the forklift's destination. Measure from the center of the boards on one track to the center of the boards on the other track. Move the tracks in or out until the width between the two center points matches the width between the two front tires on the forklift. Oak, maple or similar hard wood boards are preferred because these types of wood can better support the weight of the forklift.

3. Inspect the wooden track for stability by walking on each track. If the track sinks or is unstable it is unsafe to use and the cargo you intended to pick up should be moved to another location so you can retrieve it.

4. Drive the forklift on the tracks at a low speed you feel is safe and manageable. Make sure all the wheels are on the track, particularly when backing up, to prevent tipping over the forklift or it's load.

Tips & Warnings

• Inspect for overall cleanliness and condition of the equipment prior operating. Have a fire extinguisher on hand.

• Keep an eye on blind spots.

• Observe the load speed limit to keep the forklift balanced while driving.

• Before building a wooden track be sure the soil conditions beneath the grass can support the weight of the forklift. If the surface is muddy, sandy or uneven, the weight of the forklift may cause the wood and tires to sink.

• Never exceed the load limit of the forklift.

• The forklift operator must be fully trained, take responsibility and be knowledgeable of the equipment.

• No one except for the forklift operator should be on or near the forklift while in operation.

References

• The University of British Columbia: Procedures for Forklift Operation