CFA Load Center & Capacity Limits 3

Question 1

A forklift is rated at 8,000 lbs with a 24-inch load center. The actual load center is 48 inches. Using the basic capacity reduction formula, approximately what is the adjusted capacity?

Accepted Answer

4,000 lbs

Answer

Doubling the load center (24" to 48") roughly halves the effective capacity: 8,000 × (24/48) = 4,000 lbs.

Question 2

What is the primary reason rated capacity decreases when longer forks are installed?

Accepted Answer

Longer forks shift the effective load center farther from the mast

Answer

Longer forks push the load center farther from the mast, reducing effective lifting capacity even for the same rated load.

Question 3

A load is not centered on the forks — it rests entirely on the left fork. What is the primary safety concern?

Accepted Answer

The load may tip sideways off the forks

Answer

An off-center load creates lateral instability and can cause the load to tip sideways off the forks during travel or elevation.

Question 4

When must an operator consult the load capacity chart rather than relying on memory?

Accepted Answer

Every time load dimensions, weight, or attachments differ from standard

Answer

Operators must reference the capacity chart whenever any variable — load weight, dimensions, or attachments — changes from the standard rating.

Question 5

A forklift's capacity plate is missing or illegible. What should the operator do?

Accepted Answer

Take the forklift out of service until the plate is replaced

Answer

OSHA requires capacity plates to be present and legible; a forklift with a missing or unreadable plate must be removed from service.

CFA Practice Test

CFA Practice Test

CFA Load Center & Capacity Limits 3