How do I determine the Load Center of a Forklift?

Each forklift has a load capacity rating that determines the amount of weight the forklift can safely transport. The load capacity often changes due to the shape, size and position of the load on the forks, though these measurements can be simply made in the field with specific calculations. Safe operation of a forklift requires the operator to be aware of how much weight is loaded on the forks.

Determine if the equipment can make the lift by considering the size, position, weight distribution and shape of the load. Forklift manufacturers often calculate load capacity by quoting an evenly distributed, square object, approximately at a 24 inch distance horizontal from the mast, yet the majority of loads are not palletized cubes and the size and shape can vary. Different shape and load sizes may reduce the load capacity and cause an accident to occur. If the forklift becomes overloaded, it could tip over, affect steering control, raise the rear wheels or result in property damage, injury or possibly death.

Read the forklift nameplate or data plate to prevent exceeding the machine’s load capacity. Placing the load close to the front wheels will minimize the load distance from the load center to the front wheels. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration also recommend putting the heaviest part of the load closest to the mast. Use the manufacturer’s instructions or field calculations to estimate the lifting capacity. In order to accomplish this, measure the center of the load. It could be different than the designated 24 inch load center because of the shape and size of the load. Capacity is reduced when this measurement is exceeded. To determine if load capacity has been reduced, OSHA advises to divide the rated load centre by the actual load center and then multiply this number by the stated capacity to determine the approximate new load capacity.

Determine the maximum allowable load moment. The load moment determines how much overturning force is applied to the machine. Calculate the maximum allowable load moment if the load is longer than 48 inches to know if the load can be safely transported. When the load center decreases, the load moment will increase. The load moment can be measured by multiplying the load’s weight by its distance.

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