What is a primary safety concern when operating a forklift?

The primary safety concern when operating a forklift is the stability of the load. Ensuring that the load is stable is crucial because an unstable load can lead to tipping or loss of control, posing significant risks not only to the operator but also to other workers in the vicinity. When loads are not secured properly, or if the center of gravity is too high, there is an increased chance of accidents, which can result in severe injury or property damage.

While the speed of operation, the height of the cargo, and the type of forklift used are all important factors to consider for safe operation, they are secondary to load stability. Speed can contribute to accidents if not managed properly, and both cargo height and the type of forklift can affect how loads are handled, but the overarching principle is that maintaining a stable load is essential for safe operation. If the load is unstable, other factors may become irrelevant because the risk of an incident increases dramatically.