CFA Forklift Operation & Safety Procedures 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When traveling with a load on a forklift, the forks should be kept at what height above the ground?
- 6–8 inches (Correct answer)
- 12–15 inches
- 18–24 inches
- At floor level
Correct answer: 6–8 inches
Forks should be 6–8 inches above the ground while traveling to maintain stability and ground clearance.
Question 2: What action should a forklift operator take before entering a trailer to load or unload?
- Ensure trailer wheels are chocked and dock plate is secured (Correct answer)
- Turn off the forklift engine
- Remove the seatbelt for easier exit
- Increase travel speed to minimize dock time
Correct answer: Ensure trailer wheels are chocked and dock plate is secured
Wheel chocks and a secured dock plate prevent the trailer from moving while the forklift operates inside.
Question 3: A forklift operator approaches a blind intersection. What is the correct procedure?
- Sound the horn and slow down before proceeding (Correct answer)
- Flash the headlights and proceed quickly
- Stop completely and wait for a signal from a spotter
- Proceed normally since forklifts have the right of way
Correct answer: Sound the horn and slow down before proceeding
Sounding the horn and slowing at blind intersections warns pedestrians and other vehicles of the approaching forklift.
Question 4: What does the nameplate (data plate) on a forklift indicate?
- The maximum load capacity and load center for that specific truck (Correct answer)
- The operator's name and shift schedule
- The fuel type only
- The maximum travel speed on ramps
Correct answer: The maximum load capacity and load center for that specific truck
The nameplate specifies rated capacity, load center distance, and other critical load data unique to that forklift model.
Question 5: Which of the following is a leading cause of forklift tip-overs?
- Turning too fast while carrying a raised load (Correct answer)
- Traveling at minimum speed with a low load
- Using the horn at intersections
- Inspecting the forklift before the shift
Correct answer: Turning too fast while carrying a raised load
Turning at speed with a raised load shifts the center of gravity outside the stability triangle, causing tip-overs.
Question 6: If a forklift begins to tip over, the operator should:
- Stay in the seat, grip the steering wheel, and brace for impact (Correct answer)
- Jump off the side opposite the tip
- Jump forward off the forklift
- Attempt to outrun the falling mast
Correct answer: Stay in the seat, grip the steering wheel, and brace for impact
OSHA and manufacturers advise operators to stay belted in, hold the steering wheel, and lean away from the point of impact rather than jumping.
Question 7: What is the purpose of the overhead guard on a forklift?
- To protect the operator from falling objects (Correct answer)
- To support the mast during heavy lifts
- To mount the warning light
- To reduce aerodynamic drag at speed
Correct answer: To protect the operator from falling objects
The overhead guard is designed to shield the operator from small falling objects dislodged during stacking operations.
CFA Forklift Operation & Safety Procedures 2
When traveling with a load on a forklift, the forks should be kept at what height above the ground?