Moving high loads

Many loads are so high that they can completely obscure the forklift operator's line of sight. If the load can be split and carried on two separate pallets, this is the preferred mode of operation. Occasionally, a single piece of machinery or other object is so large that no other alternative is possible. In these circumstances the operator must use a spotter and must rely on the spotter as he would his own eyes or drive the load backwards. Spotters should be chosen with care. They must be able to respond to danger quickly, must be responsible and be able to and willing to effectively communicate with the driver.

Materials that are to be stacked have special risks. Operators must be extremely precise in the placement of stacked loads: any deviation from the center could cause the load to topple over. Further the operator must know the weight limitation of pallets (the lowest pallet supports the entire weight of the stack) as well as the nature of materials to be stacked (i.e. will they collapse under the weight of even a single pallet).