What is the effect of not pushing the load back to touch the heel of the forks?

When a forklift operator fails to push the load back to touch the heel of the forks, the consequences primarily involve the reduction of the forklift's capacity and an adverse effect on stability.

The heel of the forks serves as a crucial point of support for the load. When the load is positioned properly against the heel, it maximizes the stability of the forklift by distributing weight effectively and ensuring that the center of gravity remains within safe parameters. If the load is not positioned correctly, it can lead to a higher center of gravity and increased risk of tipping over or losing control during operation.

Additionally, not pushing the load back affects the forklift's capacity. Each forklift has a specified load capacity that is determined under standard operating conditions. When a load is improperly placed, the interaction between the load’s weight and the forklift’s design can lead to a situation where the load exceeds what the forklift can safely handle, leading to potential accidents or spills.

Therefore, for the safe and efficient operation of a forklift, it's vital for the operator to ensure that loads are positioned correctly, touching the heel of the forks.