Frequently Asked Questions
Browse here for technical information and answers to frequently asked questions about forks.
- Types of forks.
- Holes in fork blades.
- Lifting suspended loads with forks.
There are many different types of forks, each one designed for the materials to be handled and the method of handling to be used.
Can forks be used for lifting suspended loads?
Can holes be drilled in forks?
Holes can be drilled in fork blades for the purpose of attaching lifting devices.
The hole(s) must not be used for pulling or pushing and thus must not be used for attaching a towing hitch. This is because the mounting hooks on the forks are designed for vertical forces which occur when carrying loads and are not designed for the longitudinal and lateral forces that occur when pushing and pulling on the fork blade.
You must check with the manufacturer of your forks for approval and instructions as to any modifications of the forks including drilling of any holes. One manufacturer offers the following guidelines:
- The diameter of the hole must not be greater than 1-inch.
- The hole must be drilled centrally in the fork blade.
- The hole must not be more than 12-inches from the fork tip.
For this application, the fork manufacturer must be consulted as to the capacity rating of the fork when used in this manner at the load center that is created by using the hole as the attaching point for the lifting device.
The forklift truck manufacturer must also be consulted as to the capacity rating of the truck at this load center and for approval for the lifting application. Other limitations and safety precautions may apply to lifting suspended loads in this manner.
Forks with approved holes in them shall not be used in applications that create "tip loading".
See Material Handling - Attachments - Lifting Hooks - Safety Alert for a detailed explanation of the use of fork mounted lifting hook attachments as an alternative to drilling holes in fork blades.