What is a safe height to carry a load on a forklift?

Carrying a load at axle height or as low as practicable to the ground is the safest height for operational efficiency and stability while using a forklift. This height allows the operator to maintain better visibility and control over the load, reducing the risk of tipping or losing balance, especially when navigating tight spaces or uneven surfaces.

When the load is kept low, the center of gravity remains more stable, which helps prevent accidents. It also minimizes the risk of striking overhead obstacles. Maintaining the load as close to the ground as practical makes it easier to maneuver, ensuring that the forklift can handle turns and movements without risking the safety of the operator or others in the vicinity. Keeping the load low also enhances the operator's ability to assess the environment and react to potential hazards.

While carrying a load at eye level or at maximum height may seem viable in certain contexts, those options significantly increase the chances of accidents and reduced control. The approach that suggests keeping the load at least 2 feet above the ground does not offer the same level of balance and safety as the accepted standard of axle height, which prioritizes both safety and operational efficiency in a workplace setting.