Forklift attachments

Forklifts can be used to do many different jobs with a variety of attachment options, but you must follow the correct steps for adding attachments or expose operators to danger and your company to liability. If you buy a new forklift and attachment combination, the forklift will be properly labeled and safe to use, but if you try to add an attachment to an existing forklift, the process may be very challenging.

David Hoover, president of Forklift Training Systems, notes that forklift standards state that modifications must not be performed without the manufacturer’s consent. Any changes to a forklift must be reflected in its plate, tag and decals. The forklift must be marked to identify the attachment and show the weight and capacity of the new forklift/attachment combination. The nameplate and marking must be maintained in a readable condition.

To make these arrangements with a dealer or manufacturer, Hoover recommends these steps:

* Contact the local dealer for the brand of forklift to which you intend to add an attachment.
* If the dealer is not responsive, contact the factory directly.
* If you get no response from the dealer or manufacturer, OSHA permits hiring a registered engineer to test and approve the modification.