CFA Load Handling & Warehouse Management 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When picking up a load that is slightly off-center, what is the safest approach?
- Adjust forks to center the load before lifting (Correct answer)
- Lift quickly to minimize time the load is unbalanced
- Tilt mast back fully to compensate
- Proceed slowly with the load off-center
Correct answer: Adjust forks to center the load before lifting
Always reposition forks to center the load before lifting to prevent tipping or dropped loads.
Question 2: What is the primary reason forklift operators should avoid sudden stops when carrying a load?
- It wastes fuel
- It can cause the load to shift or fall forward (Correct answer)
- It wears out the brakes faster
- It triggers the overload alarm
Correct answer: It can cause the load to shift or fall forward
Sudden stops create forward momentum that can cause a load to slide off the forks or tip the forklift.
Question 3: A pallet is wrapped with stretch wrap but the wrap is torn on one side. What should the operator do?
- Proceed with caution at reduced speed
- Re-wrap or secure the load before transport (Correct answer)
- Only travel on level surfaces
- Request a spotter to walk alongside
Correct answer: Re-wrap or secure the load before transport
A compromised load wrap must be repaired or replaced to ensure the load stays secure during transport.
Question 4: At what height should forks be carried when traveling through a warehouse aisle?
- At ground level touching the floor
- 4 to 6 inches above the floor (Correct answer)
- 12 inches above the floor
- At knee height for visibility
Correct answer: 4 to 6 inches above the floor
Forks should be 4–6 inches off the ground while traveling to clear floor debris while keeping the center of gravity low.
Question 5: What does 'first-in, first-out' (FIFO) mean in warehouse load management?
- The heaviest loads are stored first and retrieved last
- Loads received first are placed and retrieved first (Correct answer)
- Fragile loads are stored first and retrieved last
- Loads stored first are the last to be picked
Correct answer: Loads received first are placed and retrieved first
FIFO ensures older inventory is used before newer stock, which is critical for perishable or time-sensitive goods.
Question 6: When stacking loads in a rack, what is the safest method to ensure rack stability?
- Stack heavier loads on top shelves
- Place heavier loads on lower rack levels (Correct answer)
- Distribute loads randomly across rack levels
- Always fill upper racks before lower racks
Correct answer: Place heavier loads on lower rack levels
Heavier loads on lower levels lower the overall center of gravity and reduce the risk of rack collapse.
Question 7: An operator notices the load they are carrying is obscuring their forward view. What should they do?
- Lean out of the cab to see around the load
- Travel in reverse using the rear as the direction of travel (Correct answer)
- Raise the forks to improve visibility
- Ask a pedestrian to guide them
Correct answer: Travel in reverse using the rear as the direction of travel
When a load blocks forward visibility, operators must travel in reverse so they can see clearly in the direction of travel.
When picking up a load that is slightly off-center, what is the safest approach?