Choosing the Right Forklift Class

Where to get forklift certified  class for your job is important to ensure worker safety. Without proper training, employees are more likely to suffer injuries and accidents that can result in costly lawsuits, equipment or structural damage, and fines from OSHA. The good news is that by ensuring operator training and certification, you can save money on insurance premiums, employee compensation, and forklift repair and maintenance costs.

Raising Standards: The Benefits of Forklift Classes for Safe and Efficient Operation

There are seven forklift classes, and each one is unique in terms of what it can do. This article will help you navigate the differences and choose the forklift that’s right for your operation.

Class I: Electric Motor Rider Trucks

This type of forklift is used for loading and unloading trucks, stacking pallets, and a variety of tasks in warehouses and general warehousing operations. It’s powered by industrial batteries and uses transistor motor controllers to control travel and hoist functions.

Class IV: Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts with Cushion Tires

These sit-down forklifts are equipped with solid, ‘cushioned’ tires that allow them to operate on smooth flooring. They run on liquid propane (LPG), diesel fuel, or gasoline and have a load capacity of up to 15,500 lbs.

Class 5: Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts With Pneumatic Tires

These forklifts are suited for indoor and outdoor use because they have pneumatic tires that can handle rough surfaces. They have a larger load capacity than Class 4 forklifts and can be driven on pavement, concrete, or gravel.