How should you handle a loaded forklift on a slippery surface?

How should you handle a loaded forklift on a slippery surface?

• A. Raise the forks to improve traction.
• B. Drive slowly with forks low, avoid sharp maneuvers, increase following distance, and if traction is poor, stop and re-route.
• C. Drive quickly to reach the destination.
• D. Ignore the slippery surface and continue.

Answer: (B)

On a slippery surface, the priority is maintaining stability and control of a loaded forklift. The load raises the center of gravity, so keeping the forks low and the load close to the ground helps lower that center of gravity and reduces the chance of tipping. Move slowly and with steady control, avoiding sudden acceleration, braking, or turns that could shift weight when grip is limited. Increase the distance to the vehicle ahead to allow for longer stopping distances on slick surfaces. If traction remains poor, stop and re-route to a safer path rather than pushing through. Lifting the forks would raise the load and worsen stability, so keeping them low is the safer approach on slippery terrain.

On a slippery surface, the priority is maintaining stability and control of a loaded forklift. The load raises the center of gravity, so keeping the forks low and the load close to the ground helps lower that center of gravity and reduces the chance of tipping. Move slowly and with steady control, avoiding sudden acceleration, braking, or turns that could shift weight when grip is limited. Increase the distance to the vehicle ahead to allow for longer stopping distances on slick surfaces. If traction remains poor, stop and re-route to a safer path rather than pushing through. Lifting the forks would raise the load and worsen stability, so keeping them low is the safer approach on slippery terrain.