In what situations should a forklift's horn be utilized?

Utilizing a forklift's horn is critical for ensuring safety in environments where forklifts operate. The correct answer emphasizes that the horn should be used to alert pedestrians and other operators. This action is vital in preventing accidents and maintaining a safe working environment. Forklifts can be large and maneuver at speed, making awareness of their presence essential for those nearby. By using the horn, operators can effectively communicate their movements or intentions, particularly in blind spots or congested areas.

In contrast, using the horn only when starting the forklift can lead to misunderstandings about its operation and potentially distract other operators and pedestrians who might not be prepared for movement. Signaling the end of a work shift with the horn is not standard practice as there are better methods for wrapping up operations. Lifting heavy loads does not inherently require the use of the horn unless the movement of such loads affects nearby personnel, making it less suitable as a primary reason for horn usage. The primary function of the horn is to ensure everyone's awareness of forklift operations for safety purposes.