When can passengers ride on a forklift?

• A. Never
• B. If the operator approves
• C. Only if it has been designed with a seat to carry more than one person
• D. If a temporary seat is installed

Answer: (C)

Passengers may ride only on a forklift when the machine is designed by the manufacturer to carry more than one person and includes a proper passenger seat. Forklifts are built for a single operator, and the vehicle’s stability, weight distribution, and control layout assume only one occupant. Adding a second person changes the center of gravity, can block controls or exits, and may bypass safety features or load ratings. A seat that is part of the original design for a second person (and its accompanying restraints) has been tested for safety, whereas temporary seats or using someone’s approval do not meet those safety and regulatory standards. Therefore, the only safe condition is when the forklift is purpose-built with a second seat.