Forklift Tail Swing

A forklift counterweight can show the failure in design and layout of a facility.

Unlike automobiles, forklifts steer from the rear. This design creates a forklift tail swing during turns, moving the rear of the forklift to the opposite side of the turn.

Safety Risks During Forklift Tail Swing

Pedestrians and fixed objects such as walls, racking and products are at risk for a collision with the forklift’s counterweight, the heaviest part of the forklift. For pedestrians, the stakes are higher if they are caught between the forklift tail swing and another object.

With every square foot of warehouse space being valuable, pallet racking and materials are often arranged to maximize storage rather than prioritize safety. However, careful planning of the warehouse layout and selecting the appropriate forklift can help minimize injuries and prevent damage caused by forklift tail swing.

Safety Tips and Strategic Questions

Consider the Equipment

What type of forklift is in use—sit-down or narrow aisle? Is it properly sized for the application?

Set Up Warehouse Aisles and Pallet Racking Strategically

Has the right angle stacking position been accurately calculated to provide the minimum width and safety clearance required for the forklift to load and unload after a 90-degree turn? Can the forklift safely navigate turns near intersecting aisles?

Inspect the Loads

What are the dimensions of the load(s) moved by the forklift? Does the load have a unique size that goes beyond the pallet?

Invest in Forklift Operator Safety Training

Have all forklift operators been properly trained and refreshed every 3 years? Is a specific forklift operator struggling with safe turns? Are pedestrians creating additional accidents or near-misses?

Walkway Protection

Do you have guard rails installed in strategic locations near pedestrian traffic, protecting expensive machinery or at end of racking rows?

Increase focus and education on safe operation of forklifts. Partner with ProLift to schedule safety training classes at your facility or one of our locations.