Is it legal to operate a forklift on a public road or highway? The answer is “No”. Because a forklift is used for material handling, it is considered a “special purpose” vehicle. As a result, it cannot be driven legally under its own power on public roads or in public parking lots.
Forklift safety should always be a priority in your warehouse or materials yard, but if your forklift must be transported to a remote site, it should be loaded onto a flatbed that is rated to carry its weight load and hauled to the work site. To prevent tipping accidents, the equipment should be strapped down in at least three locations with high-strength canvas straps secured with a winch lock.
Forklift Safety Among Pedestrians
Forklifts are commonly used to offload pallets of materials from trucks, train cars and other delivery vehicles. Usually, this action is performed on private property, namely, the warehouse or materials yard. But in some instances, due to extenuating circumstances, such as inadequate or non-existent delivery docks or setup for special events forklifts must be operated in publicly accessible places, such on sidewalks or sales floors, where you are likely to encounter the general public. If this is the case, make sure you are familiar with the local codes and ordinances regulating the use of public walkways and through ways. Violating local laws could result in fines, penalties or even imprisonment, not to mention bad public relations.
Consider Other Options First
Given a forklift’s size, weight and potential for crushing injuries, operating one in any public area is extremely dangerous. Whenever possible, consider alternative solutions, such as less dangerous power jacks or hand jacks. f you must use a forklift, minimize your risk and liability by always making sure you use rope lines, day-glow pylons or wooden horses to block off the area you will be working in. It’s a good idea to have a second employee, or “spotter” direct people away from the area, as well as a supervisor monitoring the work action. In fact, for some businesses, this is a requirement that could result in dismissal if not followed.
Scheduling times of use for forklifts that have to be in publicly accessible areas is also a good idea. Schedule forklift use in public areas during times when there are less likely to be pedestrians in the area, such as early morning or overnight.
Proceed with Extreme Caution
Operating a forklift in a public place is risky and dangerous and should only be considered when there are no other alternatives. Use extraordinary safety methods and common sense so that you can reduce the risk of injury and limit your liability.
Employees using a forklift in a public area should operate with more care and at a slower pace than they would normally. To reduce liability, make sure the driver is fully trained and certified on forklift operation and that the records are up to date. While forklift drivers are not required to have a motor vehicle license, often a forklift operator’s license may be required for an employee to operate one.