Section 1 Forklift Training Manual

FORKLIFT SAFETY TRAINING MANUAL • LESSON 1 • INTRODUCTION & OVERVIEW TO FORKLIFTS

Fulcrum Principles

The forklift operates according to the fulcrum principle - weight is balanced by a fulcrum as seen in the lever principle. The forklift has a counterweight which is composed of the engine and heavy metal parts on the rear of the vehicle. The counter weight is the load which is picked up by the forks and this load is balanced by the counterweight on the rear of the forklift.

Where is the fulcrum?

The fulcrum becomes the front tires which is the point where the load is balanced by the counterweight of the vehicle.

Lesson 1 • Page 9