Nowadays, there are different types of factors that make a forklift truck work properly. Elements such as the engine, the wheels or the cab are essential for proper operation. But, at the same time, it is also necessary to take into account that there are factors that can make the use of a forklift truck incorrect or even cause accidents. One of the determining factors is forklift truck speed.
In this sense, it is necessary to remember that it is necessary to drive at an adequate speed, since increasing this speed would also increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, it is necessary to drive responsibly for the correct operation of the forklift truck and thus increase its useful life.
So what is the right speed for forklifts?
Although it is true that there is currently no official standard that strictly and specifically regulates the speed of forklift trucks, the National Institute for Safety and Hygiene at Work has established some technical parameters.
According to these technical parameters, in outdoor work areas, the maximum speed should be about 20 km/h (12 mph). On the other hand, the speed in indoor work areas should not exceed 10 km/h. Likewise, all experts agree on the idea that speed should be reduced in the interest of caution the higher the risk.
Beyond this, it will be necessary to define a speed limit for forklifts as this will be essential to maintain safety in work areas. But not only that, but in addition to regulating speed, it will also be of vital importance to make use of proper lighting and specific sounds for total safety.
Issues to be considered when determining forklift truck speed
In addition to the work area, other issues must be taken into account when determining the correct forklift truck speed. One of these issues is the type of forklift truck in particular, since its characteristics, weight and the materials it is made of will largely determine both its use and its speed.
Thus, it can be said that the heavier a forklift truck is, the lower the speed at which it must be driven. The reason for this is that the heavier it is, the less stable it will be.
But it is not only the weight or size of the forklift truck that determines this. The speed on the forklift truck will also depend on the following factors:
- The type of forklift being used.
- State of conservation of the machinery.
- Ground on which the vehicle is driven and its condition (dry, wet, etc.).
- Resistance offered by the surface through which it circulates.
- Driver visibility.
- Characteristics of the place where it is going to circulate.
- Obstacles, unevenness, curves or changes of direction on the road.
