Forklift Safety Qualifying Exam

The statement is true because inspecting the forklift at the beginning of each shift is important for ensuring its safe operation. Regular inspections can help identify any potential issues or malfunctions that may have occurred during the previous shift or while the forklift was not in use. This allows any necessary repairs or maintenance to be carried out promptly, reducing the risk of accidents or breakdowns during operation. By conducting inspections at the start of each shift, operators can also familiarize themselves with the condition of the forklift and ensure that all safety features are functioning properly.

Stacking loads in front of emergency exits is never allowed, regardless of whether you plan to move them within 15 minutes or not. This is because emergency exits need to be kept clear at all times to ensure a safe and quick evacuation in case of an emergency. Stacking loads in front of emergency exits can hinder the evacuation process and put people's lives at risk. Therefore, the statement is false.

Forklifts should not be driven as fast as possible when outside. Forklifts have a maximum speed limit, and it is important to adhere to this limit for safety reasons. Driving at excessive speeds can increase the risk of accidents, especially when operating in outdoor areas where there may be pedestrians, other vehicles, or uneven terrain. It is crucial to drive at a safe and controlled speed to prevent collisions and maintain the stability of the forklift.

Parking a forklift in front of fire fighting equipment is not allowed because it can obstruct access to the equipment during an emergency. It is important to keep fire fighting equipment easily accessible at all times to ensure the safety of the workplace and its occupants. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

Driving faster in the rain can be dangerous as it increases the risk of hydroplaning, where the tires lose contact with the road surface due to a layer of water. Wet tires and brakes do not pose a significant risk as they are designed to function properly in wet conditions. Slowing down and maintaining a safe speed is recommended when driving in the rain to ensure better control and reduce the chances of accidents.

The statement is false because it is not okay for a co-worker to ride on the forks, regardless of the driving speed. Riding on the forks of a forklift is extremely dangerous and against safety regulations. It can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. It is important to prioritize safety in the workplace and ensure that all employees are aware of the risks and follow proper protocols.

Smoking in a battery changing or refueling area is not okay, regardless of the distance from the forklift. Smoking in such areas can be extremely dangerous due to the presence of flammable materials and potential ignition sources. It is important to prioritize safety and avoid smoking in these areas to prevent accidents and potential fires.

Leaving a forklift running unattended, even for a quick drink of water, is not okay. It is a safety hazard as the forklift can be accidentally operated by someone else or cause an accident if left unattended. It is important to always turn off the forklift and engage the parking brake when leaving it, even for a short period of time.

When approaching a blind spot, it is important to sound your horn to warn others. This is because blind spots are areas where the visibility of the driver is limited, and other drivers or pedestrians may not be aware of your presence. By sounding your horn, you alert them to your presence and reduce the risk of a collision. Therefore, the statement "Sound your horn to warn others when you approach a blind spot" is true.

Tilting the load against the backrest helps to distribute the weight evenly and provide stability. This prevents the load from shifting or falling during transportation or storage. It also ensures that the load is properly supported and reduces the risk of injury or damage. Tilted load against the backrest also allows for better visibility and maneuverability, making it easier to handle and control. Therefore, it is recommended to tilt the load against the backrest for safe and efficient handling.

The statement is false because it is not enough for a co-worker to keep their arms and legs inside the operator's compartment. Giving a co-worker a ride is generally not allowed as it can be a safety hazard and against company policies. It is important to follow proper procedures and guidelines to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

This statement suggests that stunt driving is acceptable as long as it is done after hours. However, this is not true. Stunt driving is dangerous and illegal regardless of the time of day. It poses a risk to the driver and others on the road. It is important to prioritize safety and follow the laws and regulations in place to prevent accidents and maintain order on the roads.

A professional operator ensures that the wheels of a truck trailer are chocked before entering it to prevent any movement or rolling of the trailer. This safety measure is important to maintain stability and prevent accidents or damage to the trailer and its contents. Chocking the wheels involves placing wedges or blocks in front and behind the wheels to keep them stationary. By doing so, the operator can safely enter and work within the trailer without the risk of it moving unexpectedly.

Having someone stand on the back of the forklift when the rear wheels raise off the ground would not be a safe or effective way to counter the action. It is important to maintain proper balance and stability when operating a forklift, and adding additional weight to the back could potentially lead to further instability and accidents. Instead, it is recommended to adjust the load or seek assistance from a trained professional to properly address the situation.

Driving with a raised load when your visibility is blocked is not safe, even if there are no pedestrians in the general area. It is important to have clear visibility at all times while driving to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. The raised load can obstruct your view of potential hazards, such as other vehicles or obstacles, which can lead to accidents. Therefore, it is not okay to drive with a raised load when your visibility is blocked, regardless of the presence of pedestrians.

It is important to always hand-tighten propane cylinder connections because using tools can lead to over-tightening and potential damage. Additionally, checking for leaks after connecting is crucial for safety reasons as it ensures that there are no gas leaks which can be hazardous. Therefore, the statement is true.

The load capacity of a forklift is indeed listed on the data plate. This plate contains important information about the forklift, including its load capacity, which specifies the maximum weight that the forklift can safely lift and carry. It is crucial for operators to refer to the data plate to ensure that they do not exceed the forklift's load capacity, as doing so can result in accidents or damage to the equipment. Therefore, the statement is true.

The center of gravity in the stability triangle is affected by the weight of the load. This means that if the load is heavier, the center of gravity will shift, potentially causing the object or structure to become unstable. It is important to consider the weight distribution and balance of the load in order to maintain stability and prevent accidents or collapses.

When approaching pedestrians who are standing or walking, it is important to sound your horn as a warning. This can help alert them to your presence and prevent accidents. By sounding your horn, you are providing an auditory signal to pedestrians, allowing them to be aware of your vehicle and potentially move out of the way if necessary. This is especially important in situations where pedestrians may not be able to see or hear your vehicle approaching, such as in crowded or noisy areas. Therefore, the statement "True" is the correct answer.

When picking up a load, it is important to have the forks level and spread as wide as possible. This ensures that the load is properly balanced and supported, reducing the risk of it falling or tipping over during transport. Having the forks level also helps in smoothly entering the pallet, preventing any damage to the load or pallet. Therefore, it is true that the forks should be level and spread as wide as possible when picking up a load.

Operators should not try to fix any mechanical trouble that develops whenever possible. They should only attempt to fix mechanical issues if they are trained and qualified to do so. It is important for operators to prioritize their safety and the safety of others by seeking professional help when necessary. Trying to fix mechanical problems without proper knowledge and training can lead to further damage or accidents.

It is important to drive at a reduced speed on wet or slippery surfaces because these conditions reduce the traction between the tires and the road, making it easier for the vehicle to skid or lose control. By driving at a slower speed, you have more time to react to any potential hazards and maintain better control of the vehicle. This helps to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Turning on a dock plate refers to activating or using a dock plate. The statement suggests that it is advisable to avoid using a dock plate whenever possible. By doing so, the risk of it slipping is reduced. Therefore, the correct answer is true, indicating that it is indeed recommended to not turn on a dock plate whenever possible to prevent slipping accidents.

A professional operator always plans his route ahead to avoid obstacles. This is because planning the route in advance allows the operator to identify potential obstacles or hazards along the way and find alternative routes if necessary. By doing so, the operator can ensure a smooth and efficient journey, minimizing delays and maximizing safety. Planning ahead also helps the operator to optimize fuel consumption and reduce costs. Therefore, it is important for a professional operator to plan his route ahead to avoid obstacles.

The statement is incorrect. The front wheels of a vehicle are typically the steering wheels, responsible for changing the direction of the vehicle. Therefore, the correct answer is True, not False.

When a forklift requires repairs, it is important to tag it and remove it from service. This is necessary to ensure the safety of the operators and other personnel in the workplace. By tagging the lift truck, it serves as a visual indication that the forklift is not in working condition and should not be used. Removing it from service prevents any accidents or further damage that could occur if the forklift is used while in need of repairs. Therefore, the statement "If a forklift needs repairs, tag the lift truck and remove it from service" is true.

The statement is false because it is indeed the operator's responsibility to report slippery conditions in high traffic areas. Operators are responsible for ensuring the safety of the area they are operating in, and reporting any hazardous conditions is part of that responsibility. By reporting slippery conditions, operators can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of both themselves and others in high traffic areas.

Sudden stops and turns are not okay even if the forklift is empty. Forklifts should always be operated with caution and follow proper safety protocols, regardless of whether they are carrying any load or not. Abrupt stops and turns can cause the forklift to lose stability and potentially tip over, leading to accidents and injuries. Therefore, it is important to avoid sudden maneuvers and ensure smooth and controlled operations at all times.

This statement is true because in a forklift, the rear wheels are the ones that turn. When the forklift is cornering, the back end of the forklift tends to swing wide because the rear wheels have a larger turning radius compared to the front wheels. This swinging motion can be observed when the forklift is making sharp turns or navigating tight spaces. Therefore, the statement is correct.

When traveling up or down a ramp, it is important for the load to be pointing uphill. This is because the force of gravity can cause the load to slide or shift if it is pointing downhill, which can be dangerous. By pointing the load uphill, the force of gravity helps to keep the load in place and prevents it from moving or falling off the ramp. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

If the load on your fork blocks your visibility, driving in reverse is a safe and appropriate solution. This is because driving in reverse allows you to have a clear view of the surroundings and avoid any potential accidents or obstacles that may be in your path. It is important to prioritize safety and ensure that you have a clear line of sight while operating any vehicle, including a forklift.

The statement suggests that it is necessary to allow three vehicle turn lengths when following another forklift. This means that a forklift should maintain a safe distance of three times the length of its own vehicle when following another forklift. This is important to ensure that there is enough space for both forklifts to safely navigate turns without any collisions or accidents. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

The statement suggests that material can be left in aisles and roadways if there is a clearance of 12 inches to pass through. However, the correct answer is false because leaving material in aisles and roadways can pose a safety hazard and obstruct the flow of traffic. It is important to ensure that aisles and roadways are clear and free from any obstructions to maintain a safe working environment.

Lifting your load while driving is not safe, even if you reduce your speed and do it carefully. It is important to secure your load properly before starting your journey. Lifting a load while driving can cause instability, affect your vehicle's balance, and increase the risk of accidents. It is always recommended to stop in a safe location and ensure that the load is properly secured before continuing your journey.

The statement is explaining the concept of load capacity, which refers to the maximum weight that can be safely lifted without causing any damage or imbalance. It implies that if the load is perfectly balanced, it can be lifted to its maximum capacity without any risk. Therefore, the statement is true, as it accurately defines the load capacity.

Steel support jacks should be used when a truck trailer is not connected to the cab. This is because when the trailer is not connected to the cab, it can become unstable and prone to tipping or collapsing. Steel support jacks provide additional stability and support to prevent any accidents or damage. Therefore, it is true that steel support jacks should be used in this situation.

When traveling with a load, it is important to keep the forks of the forklift 6-10 inches off the ground. This is because having the forks too low can cause them to get caught on obstacles or uneven surfaces, leading to potential accidents or damage to the load. By keeping the forks at the recommended height, the forklift operator can ensure safe and smooth movement while transporting the load.

The statement is false because a forklift does not always have the right-of-way in a facility. The right-of-way is determined by traffic rules and regulations, and in most cases, pedestrians and other vehicles have the right-of-way over forklifts. It is important to follow proper traffic guidelines and yield to others when operating a forklift to ensure safety in the facility.

It is important to always travel straight up and down incline surfaces and ramps to ensure safety and stability. Going at an angle can increase the risk of slipping or losing balance, especially on steep inclines. Additionally, traveling straight up and down helps distribute weight evenly and reduces strain on the body. Therefore, it is advisable to follow this guideline to prevent accidents and maintain stability while navigating incline surfaces and ramps.

According to the given statement, pedestrians and co-workers are responsible for keeping clear of your forklift when inside your facility. However, the correct answer is false because it is the responsibility of the forklift operator to ensure the safety of pedestrians and co-workers by operating the forklift safely and following proper guidelines and protocols to avoid accidents or injuries.

As a professional operator, it is essential to always check behind you before backing up, regardless of whether you are unsure if someone is back there or not. This is because there could be blind spots or unexpected obstacles that may pose a risk to safety. By checking behind, you can ensure that the area is clear and prevent any potential accidents or harm.

When the center of gravity shifts outside the stability triangle, it actually increases the odds of tipping the forklift. The stability triangle is the area formed by the two front wheels and the pivot point of the rear axle. If the center of gravity moves outside this triangle, it creates an imbalance and makes the forklift more prone to tipping over. Therefore, the statement is false.

Forklift designations are not given specifically for wet or slippery surfaces. Forklift designations are typically given based on the type of forklift and its intended use, such as indoor or outdoor, rough terrain, or narrow aisle. While it is important for forklift operators to be aware of and take precautions when operating on wet or slippery surfaces, this is not a determining factor in the designation of a forklift.

The given statement is false. If your load weighs 4,000 pounds, it is not safe to enter a truck with a 5,000 pound capacity. The capacity of the truck should always exceed the weight of the load to ensure safety. In this case, the load exceeds the capacity of the truck, which can lead to potential damage or accidents. Therefore, it is not safe to enter the truck with a 5,000 pound capacity.