Carrying a load on only one fork arm is unsafe. Why is this so?

• A. Stability may be reduced
• B. It makes lifting easier
• C. It increases load capacity
• D. It has no effect on safety

Answer: (A)

Stability when lifting depends on keeping the load balanced across both forks so the forklift’s center of gravity stays inside the front wheel area. Carrying a load on only one fork shifts that center of gravity toward the loaded side, which reduces the safety margin. That side becomes easier to tip toward, especially when you start moving, brake, corner, or drive over uneven ground. The forklift’s capacity is calculated for a load centred on both forks, so a one-sided load effectively lowers the safe limit and increases the risk of tipping or losing control. This is why carrying a load on a single fork is unsafe.