What does 'forklift stability' depend on?

Forklift stability is fundamentally influenced by the center of gravity and the distribution of the load. The center of gravity refers to the point where the weight of the forklift and its load is concentrated. A lower center of gravity enhances stability, while a higher center can make the forklift top-heavy and prone to tipping, especially during turns or when lifting heavy loads.

Proper load distribution is equally vital. If a load is unevenly distributed, it can shift during operation, causing the forklift to become unbalanced and increasing the risk of accidents. An evenly distributed load ensures that the center of gravity remains stable, contributing to safer operation.

Other factors, such as the speed of operation, the type of surface, and the age of the forklift, can influence how stability is maintained in practical scenarios, but they do not determine the fundamental principle of stability in the way that the center of gravity and load distribution do. Understanding these core concepts is crucial for safe forklift operation.