A forklift is a powered industrial truck used to lift and move materials over short distances. It has a forked platform attached at the front that can be raised and lowered for insertion under a cargo to lift or move it. Forklifts are powered by electric battery or combustion engines. They are used in various industries including warehouses, storage facilities, and construction sites. Forklifts can unload pallets of bricks, construction materials, and steel joists from the delivery truck and transport them to the job site. They vary in size, ranging from one ton capacity for general warehouse-related work to 50 ton capacity for shipping container work. Forklifts have become an indispensable piece of equipment in manufacturing and warehousing, with the top 20 manufacturers worldwide posting sales of $30.4 billion in 2013, with 944,405 machines sold.
Forklifts are designed with a load limit for the forks which is decreased with fork elevation and undercutting of the load. A loading plate for loading reference is usually located on the forklift. Forklifts should not be used as a personnel lift without the fitting of specific safety equipment, such as a "cherry picker" or "cage". Forklifts are a critical element of warehouses and distribution centers, and it is considered imperative that these structures be designed to accommodate their efficient and safe movement.
There are different types of forklifts, including rider stacker forklifts, reach trucks, and pallet trucks. Forklifts can also be fitted with fork attachments, such as telehandlers, which are beneficial for projects that require a lot of material-moving. Forklifts are also used in marinas and boat storage facilities, featuring tall masts, heavy counterweights, and special paint to resist.
It is important to note that powered industrial trucks, including forklifts, can be dangerous if not used properly. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations in place to ensure the safe use of forklifts, including proper training and certification for operators.
