10 Common Reasons for a Forklift to Tip Over

Forklifts are workhorses that help move loads around warehouses, factories and construction sites. But despite their usefulness, forklifts can also be dangerous machines if not used correctly. One of the biggest risks when operating a forklift is that it tips over either sideways or forwards. A tipped forklift can cause injuries, fatalities, and damaged goods, leading to lost business and profits. 

In this article, we explore five of the most common reasons that forklifts tip over forwards and sideways, plus the steps you can take to prevent them.

What causes a forklift to tip over sideways?

• Turning too sharply

Turning too sharply while carrying a heavy load can cause the load to shift and make the forklift unstable, causing the truck to tip over.

• Driving on uneven ground

Driving on sloped or uneven ground can easily destabilise a forklift, especially if it’s carrying a heavy load.

• Driving too fast 

Driving a forklift at high speeds can cause it to tip over since it’s difficult to control the machine’s momentum.

• Not following proper loading procedures

Improperly balanced or positioned loads on the forklift’s forks can make it wobbly, causing the truck to tip over.

• Using a forklift that is not in good repair 

Broken or damaged parts can make a forklift unstable, making it easier for the machine to tip over, even if it’s being operated correctly.

What would cause a forklift to tip forwards?

• Exceeding the maximum recommended load capacity

When a forklift carries a load that exceeds its recommended capacity, the centre of gravity shifts and the forklift becomes less stable. This can cause the forklift to tip over forward.

• Lifting the load with the mast tilting forward

If the forklift is positioned on an incline and the load is lifted using the mast tilting forward, the centre of gravity of the forklift can shift forward, making it more likely to tip over.

• Accelerating or decelerating too quickly 

A forklift that is driven too fast or accelerated or decelerated too harshly can cause the load to shift, resulting in the truck tipping over forward.

• Lifting or lowering a load while on an incline

Lifting or lowering a load while still positioned on an incline can destabilise the forklift, causing it to tip over forwards.

• Hitting overhead obstacle

Collisions with overhead barriers, such as doors or beams, can take the forklift off balance and lead it to tipping over.

 

How to prevent a forklift from tipping over

It’s critical to take measures to prevent forklifts from tipping over. Try the following:

• Ensure proper training 

 All forklift operators should undergo proper training before operating a forklift. It is crucial that they know how to operate the machinery safely and confidently.

• Regularly maintain forklifts

Regular servicing, repairs, and maintenance will ensure that forklifts are in optimal condition.

• Properly load the forklift 

Forklift operators should be trained to position and balance loads carefully, ensuring that loads are within the weight capacity.

• Avoid speeding 

 Forklift operators should follow speed limits and drive carefully, especially when carrying loads.

• Adhere to safety guidelines 

 Forklift operators should wear a seatbelt, follow guidelines, and always be mindful of their surroundings.

East Midlands Forklifts offers a range of new and refurbished forklifts on flexible hire contracts. Our forklifts are all tested to ensure perfect working order, and we even provide regular maintenance to keep your forklift operating at its best. Do your part to avoid accidents in the workplace by hiring reliable forklifts from a company you can trust.

We serve customers in Nottingham, Derby, Loughborough and Leicester. Contact us for more information.