How To Do Load Testing on a Forklift

Load testing your unit is required by OSHA each year and after major repairs in order to avoid unnecessary accidents, injuries, and deaths. There are certain steps that should be followed before beginning load testing.

1. The first thing you should do is test the brakes without a load and limiting safety equipment and features. This will help determine if the mechanisms are working properly and minimize the risk of tipping over.
2. Gather test weights matching the maximum rated load specification as indicated in the operations manual. Weigh the test load to be lifted to ensure the accuracy to be within minus five percent of rated capacity.
3. Load the test weights and ensure the slippage isn’t more than three inches vertically and one inch horizontally. You should raise the load to maximum for a minimum of 10 minutes to ensure the vehicle doesn’t lower or drop the load.
4. If it fails the load test, require the maintenance needed and perform the test again.
5. Once you have successfully completed the test load, you should write a report stating steps used.

Following these steps will put you on the road to safe driving and accident prevention.