Forklifts: Fork Safety

With today’s demands on production equipment, safety is critical. One item that is often overlooked with forklifts are the forks themselves. ANSI B56.ie1993-6.2.8. requires that "Forks in use shall be inspected at intervals of not more than 12 months, for single shift operations, or whenever any defect or permanent deformation is detected. Sever applications will require more frequent inspections."

What To Look For

Daily visual checks are an easy way to identify potential problems. Visual inspections should include checking:

• Surface cracks 
• Straightens of blade and shank
• Fork angle, upper face of blade to load face of the shank
• Difference in height of fork tips
• Positioning locks
• Fork wear 

Fork Repair & Testing

ANSI B56.ie1993-6.2.8. states: "Repair by only the manufacturer of the fork or an expert of equal competence shall decide if a fork may be repaired for continual use, and the repairs shall be carried out by such parties. It is recommended that the surface cracks or wear be repaired by welding. When repairs necessitating resetting are required, the fork shall subsequently be subjected to an appropriate heat treatment, as necessary."

For more information or an inspection of your lift trucks' forks, contact Ring Power Lift Trucks or contact us at lifttrucks.ringpower.com.