How to drive forklift on a grade

Improper operation of a forklift on grade can lead to accidents. It is the responsibility of warehouse managers to ensure that operators follow best practices when driving forklifts up and down these areas to maintain a safe and productive workplace. Follow these six rules to help reduce the risk of accidents at work.

1. Safe Operation

Every forklift manufacturer provides an Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM). Always read and follow the instructions in the OMM to operate the forklift safely.

• Training Integration: Make the OMM part of your operator training and ensure that these manuals are readily available. Many manufacturers provide a designated storage space for the OMM on the forklift.
• Importance of the OMM: Regularly referencing the OMM during training can help reduce the risk of injury to the operator, coworkers, and bystanders. If you do not have the OMM for your forklift, contact your local dealer for a replacement.

What is the Maximum Slope for a Forklift?

The maximum slope a forklift can operate on depends on the type of forklift. Manufacturers provide gradeability ratings that indicate the steepest slope a forklift can climb while carrying a full load. Some forklifts can handle grades up to 40%.

How to Determine the Grade of a Slope or Ramp

To determine the grade of a ramp or slope, measure its height (rise) and length (run). Divide the height by the length. For example, if a ramp is 5 feet high and 20 feet long, the grade is calculated as follows:Grade=RiseRun=5 ft20 ft=0.25 or 25%\text{Grade} = \frac{\text{Rise}}{\text{Run}} = \frac{5 \text{ ft}}{20 \text{ ft}} = 0.25 \text{ or } 25\%Grade=RunRise​=20 ft5 ft​=0.25 or 25%

2. Order Pickers on Ramps

Order pickers are generally not designed to operate on ramps or slopes, and manufacturers may prohibit their use in these areas. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions in the OMM. If the OMM does not provide guidance on this, contact your dealer for clarification.

3. Go Up and Down Grades Slowly

Forklifts must be operated at slow speeds on slopes to avoid accidents or injuries. This applies whether the forklift is carrying a load or not.

4. Driving Direction on Grades

New forklift operators often ask, “Which way should the load face when going up a ramp?” The correct answer is that the load must always face uphill. This prevents the load from sliding off the forks.

• Turning Restrictions: Never attempt to turn a forklift while on a ramp.
• Driving Unloaded Forklifts: When driving an unloaded forklift, the forks should always point down the ramp to enhance braking and traction.

5. No Sudden Changes in Direction

Sudden changes in direction or turning a forklift on a ramp, whether loaded or unloaded, can lead to tipping. Sudden movements can destabilize the forklift.

To prevent tipping, operators should:

• Be aware of their surroundings
• Avoid sudden directional changes
• Never attempt to turn on a ramp
• Plan routes in advance and, as noted in Rule #3, drive slowly.

6. Remember the Fundamentals

While specific rules exist for operating on ramps and slopes, operators should always apply the training, knowledge, and experience they have gained in routine forklift operations.

Our forklift safety training and certification program can help improve operator efficiency and safety. Contact your local forklift dealer to schedule a training session for your company.