Understanding the Workplace » Ramps and Grades

Figure 1. Drive loaded trucks forward going up a ramp.
Figure 1. Drive loaded trucks forward going up a ramp.

Forklift operators should follow certain general rules of the road when traveling on ramps and other inclines.

For more on maneuvering and handling loads, please see the Operating the Forklift module.

Potential Hazard

  • There is a danger of tipover when traveling on ramps and grades.

Requirements and Recommended Practices

Figure 2. Traveling down ramp without load.

  • Always look in the direction of travel.

  • Never turn on a ramp or incline. Turn prior to the ramp or incline to place forks in proper direction.

  • Keep a safe distance from the edge of a ramp.

  • Do not travel on ramps with slopes or other conditions that exceed the manufacturer's recommendation.

Figure 3. Traveling with a load. Note that ramps should have railings or bull rails.

 

Figure 4. Traveling up ramp with load.

 

Figure 5. Traveling down ramp with a load.

Forklift operators should be aware of procedures to follow when traveling on ramps and other inclines with a load.

Potential Hazards

  • Danger of tipover.

  • Danger of losing load.

Requirements and Recommended Practices

  • When traveling with a load, the load should point up the incline, regardless of direction of travel.

  • Going up the incline:

    • Drive forward.

    • Forks pointed upgrade.

    • Use a spotter if load blocks the driver's view.

  • Going down the incline:

    • Drive in reverse.

    • Turn head and face downgrade.

    • Forks pointed up the grade.

NOTE: When walking with a pallet truck with or without a load, the forks should be pointed downgrade, regardless of direction of travel.

Figure 6. Traveling without a load. Note that ramps should have railings or bull rails.

 

Forklift operators should follow certain procedures when traveling on ramps and grades without a load.

Potential Hazard

  • Danger of tipover.

Figure 7. Traveling down ramp without load.

Requirements and Recommended Practices

  • When traveling without a load, the forks should point downgrade, regardless of direction of travel.

  • Going up the incline:

    • Drive in reverse.

    • Turn head and face upgrade.

    • Forks pointed downgrade.

  • Going down the incline:

    • Drive forward.

    • Forks pointed downgrade.