75 Forklift Test Questions and Answers PDF Free Download

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on forklift test questions and answers for 2025!

Whether you’re preparing for a forklift certification exam in the US or the UK or simply looking to improve your knowledge of forklift operations and safety, this guide is for you.

In this guide, we will take you through 75 questions and answers based on relevant tests, standards, and guidelines from the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Let’s get started!

75 Forklift Test Questions and Answers PDF Content

PART 1 – MCQs

1. What is the primary function of a forklift’s counterweight?
   a) To increase lifting capacity
   b) To balance the load on the forks
   c) To improve fuel efficiency
   d) To reduce tire wear
   Answer: b) To balance the load on the forks
2. What is the typical load center for a standard forklift?
   a) 12 inches
   b) 24 inches
   c) 36 inches
   d) 48 inches
   Answer: b) 24 inches
3. Which component is responsible for lifting the load on a forklift?
   a) Mast
   b) Hydraulic cylinder
   c) Forks
   d) Carriage
   Answer: b) Hydraulic cylinder
4. What is the purpose of a forklift’s tilt cylinder?
   a) To lift the load vertically
   b) To tilt the mast forward or backward
   c) To stabilize the forklift during turns
   d) To adjust the fork width
   Answer: b) To tilt the mast forward or backward
5. What is the maximum allowable tire pressure for a pneumatic forklift tire?
   a) 50 psi
   b) 75 psi
   c) 100 psi
   d) 120 psi
   Answer: c) 100 psi

6. According to OSHA, what is the minimum distance a forklift must maintain from a platform or loading dock edge?
   a) 2 feet
   b) 3 feet
   c) 4 feet
   d) 5 feet
   Answer: b) 3 feet
7. What is the maximum allowable load capacity reduction when operating a forklift on a slope?
   a) 10%
   b) 20%
   c) 30%
   d) 40%
   Answer: b) 20%
8. Which of the following is a requirement under HSE’s PUWER regulations?
   a) Daily operator training
   b) Annual forklift inspections
   c) Use of seatbelts at all times
   d) All of the above
   Answer: d) All of the above
9. What is the recommended maximum speed for a forklift in a warehouse environment?
   a) 3 mph
   b) 5 mph
   c) 7 mph
   d) 10 mph
   Answer: b) 5 mph
10. Which OSHA standard specifically covers powered industrial trucks?
    a) 29 CFR 1910.120
    b) 29 CFR 1910.178
    c) 29 CFR 1926.602
    d) 29 CFR 1910.269
    Answer: b) 29 CFR 1910.178

11. What is the correct way to approach a load on a pallet?
    a) Forks tilted forward
    b) Forks tilted backward
    c) Forks level and parallel to the ground
    d) Forks raised to maximum height
    Answer: c) Forks level and parallel to the ground
12. What should you do if the load obstructs your forward vision?
    a) Raise the load higher for better visibility
    b) Drive in reverse
    c) Tilt the mast forward
    d) Use a mirror to see ahead
    Answer: b) Drive in reverse
13. What is the primary risk of carrying a load that exceeds the forklift’s rated capacity?
    a) Reduced fuel efficiency
    b) Increased tire wear
    c) Loss of stability and tip-over
    d) Damage to the hydraulic system
    Answer: c) Loss of stability and tip-over
14. What is the purpose of a forklift’s load backrest?
    a) To increase lifting capacity
    b) To prevent the load from falling backward
    c) To improve operator comfort
    d) To reduce fork wear
    Answer: b) To prevent the load from falling backward
15. What is the correct procedure for parking a forklift on an incline?
    a) Turn the wheels toward the slope
    b) Turn the wheels away from the slope
    c) Leave the forks raised
    d) Engage the parking brake and lower the forks
    Answer: d) Engage the parking brake and lower the forks

16. What is the primary hazard of operating a forklift on a wet or slippery surface?
    a) Reduced lifting capacity
    b) Loss of traction and control
    c) Increased fuel consumption
    d) Damage to the tires
    Answer: b) Loss of traction and control
17. What should you do if a forklift starts to tip over?
    a) Jump out of the forklift
    b) Hold onto the steering wheel and brace your feet
    c) Tilt the mast forward
    d) Release the seatbelt
    Answer: b) Hold onto the steering wheel and brace your feet
18. What is the primary risk of using a forklift to lift personnel without a proper platform?
    a) Reduced visibility
    b) Increased fuel consumption
    c) Risk of falls and injuries
    d) Damage to the forks
    Answer: c) Risk of falls and injuries
19. What is the first step in responding to a forklift fire?
    a) Evacuate the area and call for help
    b) Use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire
    c) Tilt the mast to remove the load
    d) Turn off the forklift’s engine
    Answer: a) Evacuate the area and call for help
20. What is the primary purpose of a forklift’s overhead guard?
    a) To protect the operator from falling objects
    b) To improve aerodynamics
    c) To reduce noise levels
    d) To increase lifting capacity
    Answer: a) To protect the operator from falling objects

21. What is the primary difference between a Class I and Class III forklift?
    a) Class I forklifts are electric, while Class III forklifts are diesel-powered
    b) Class I forklifts are rider-operated, while Class III forklifts are walk-behind
    c) Class I forklifts are for outdoor use, while Class III forklifts are for indoor use
    d) Class I forklifts have higher load capacities than Class III forklifts
    Answer: b) Class I forklifts are rider-operated, while Class III forklifts are walk-behind
22. What is the purpose of a forklift’s data plate?
    a) To display the operator’s name
    b) To provide load capacity and operational specifications
    c) To track maintenance schedules
    d) To indicate the forklift’s age
    Answer: b) To provide load capacity and operational specifications
23. What is the primary risk of operating a forklift with a damaged or missing data plate?
    a) Reduced fuel efficiency
    b) Increased tire wear
    c) Overloading and instability
    d) Damage to the hydraulic system
    Answer: c) Overloading and instability
24. What is the primary function of a forklift’s hydraulic fluid?
    a) To lubricate the engine
    b) To power the lifting and tilting mechanisms
    c) To cool the brakes
    d) To improve traction
    Answer: b) To power the lifting and tilting mechanisms
25. What is the primary risk of operating a forklift with low hydraulic fluid?
    a) Reduced lifting capacity
    b) Increased fuel consumption
    c) Damage to the hydraulic system
    d) Loss of steering control
    Answer: c) Damage to the hydraulic system

PART 2 – Short Answers

Section 1: Forklift Basics

1. What is the primary purpose of a forklift?
   Answer: To lift, move, and stack materials.
2. What are the two main types of forklifts?
   Answer: Counterbalance forklifts and warehouse forklifts.
3. What is the load center on a forklift?
   Answer: The horizontal distance from the vertical face of the forks to the center of gravity of the load.
4. What does the term “load capacity” mean?
   Answer: The maximum weight a forklift can safely carry at a specified load center.
5. What is the stability triangle on a forklift?
   Answer: The area formed by the two front wheels and the pivot point of the rear axle, which determines the forklift’s balance.

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Section 2: Forklift Safety

6. What is the most common cause of forklift accidents?
   Answer: Tip-overs due to overloading or improper turning.
7. What should you do if a forklift starts to tip over?
   Answer: Stay in the vehicle, hold onto the steering wheel, and brace your feet.
8. What is the maximum speed a forklift should travel in a warehouse?
   Answer: Typically 5 mph (8 km/h) or as per site-specific rules.
9. Why is it important to wear a seatbelt on a forklift?
   Answer: To prevent ejection during a tip-over or collision.
10. What is the proper way to approach a load?
    Answer: Squarely and slowly, ensuring the forks are level and at the correct height.

Section 3: Forklift Operations

11. What should you check before operating a forklift?
    Answer: Fluid levels, tires, brakes, lights, horn, and steering.
12. What is the correct way to lift a load?
    Answer: Position the forks under the load, tilt the mast slightly backward, and lift smoothly.
13. How should you carry a load on a forklift?
    Answer: Keep the load low and tilted back for stability.
14. What is the proper way to park a forklift?
    Answer: Lower the forks to the ground, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.
15. What should you do if your vision is blocked by a load?
    Answer: Drive in reverse or use a spotter.

Section 4: OSHA and HSE Standards

16. What is the minimum age requirement to operate a forklift in the US?
    Answer: 18 years old.
17. What does OSHA require for forklift operators?
    Answer: Proper training, certification, and evaluation every three years.
18. What is the UK equivalent of OSHA?
    Answer: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
19. What is the HSE’s requirement for forklift training?
    Answer: Operators must complete formal training and pass a practical and theoretical test.
20. What is the purpose of a pre-operational inspection?
    Answer: To identify and address any safety issues before using the forklift.

Section 5: Forklift Maintenance

21. How often should a forklift be inspected?
    Answer: Daily or before each shift.
22. What should you do if you notice a leak in the forklift?
    Answer: Report it immediately and do not operate the forklift.
23. What is the purpose of a forklift’s overhead guard?
    Answer: To protect the operator from falling objects.
24. What should you check in the forklift’s hydraulic system?
    Answer: Fluid levels, hoses, and leaks.
25. Why is it important to keep forklift tires properly inflated?
    Answer: To ensure stability and prevent accidents.

Section 6: Forklift Hazards

26. What is a common hazard when operating a forklift on a ramp?
    Answer: Loss of control or tipping.
27. What should you do when driving a forklift on a slope?
    Answer: Drive with the load uphill and unloaded forklift downhill.
28. What is the danger of overloading a forklift?
    Answer: It can cause the forklift to tip over or damage the equipment.
29. What is the risk of carrying a load that is too high?
    Answer: Reduced visibility and instability.
30. What should you do if you encounter a pedestrian in your path?
    Answer: Stop and wait for them to clear the area.

Section 7: Forklift Certification

31. How long does a forklift certification last in the US?
    Answer: Three years.
32. What is included in forklift training?
    Answer: Classroom instruction, practical training, and evaluation.
33. Can a forklift operator be certified online?
    Answer: No, practical training and evaluation are required.
34. What happens if an operator fails the forklift test?
    Answer: They must undergo additional training and retake the test.
35. Who is responsible for ensuring forklift operators are certified?
    Answer: The employer.

Section 8: Advanced Forklift Knowledge

36. What is the difference between a Class I and Class II forklift?
    Answer: Class I forklifts are electric motor rider trucks, while Class II forklifts are electric narrow aisle trucks.
37. What is the purpose of a load backrest?
    Answer: To prevent the load from falling backward.
38. What is the danger of using a forklift to lift people?
    Answer: It is unsafe unless a proper work platform is used.
39. What is the maximum height a forklift can lift a load?
    Answer: It depends on the forklift model, but operators should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
40. What is the purpose of a forklift’s data plate?
    Answer: To provide information about the forklift’s load capacity and specifications.

Section 9: Forklift Safety Tips

41. Why should you avoid sudden stops while carrying a load?
    Answer: It can cause the load to shift or fall.
42. What should you do if you encounter a wet or slippery surface?
    Answer: Reduce speed and avoid sharp turns.
43. Why is it important to maintain clear visibility while operating a forklift?
    Answer: To avoid collisions with pedestrians, equipment, or obstacles.
44. What should you do if you notice a warning light on the forklift dashboard?
    Answer: Stop the forklift and investigate the issue.
45. Why should you never allow unauthorized personnel to operate a forklift?
    Answer: It can lead to accidents and injuries.

Section 10: Forklift Emergency Procedures

46. What should you do in case of a fire on a forklift?
    Answer: Evacuate the area and use a fire extinguisher if safe to do so.
47. What is the first step in responding to a forklift accident?
    Answer: Ensure the safety of all individuals involved and call for help.
48. What should you do if a forklift’s brakes fail?
    Answer: Shift to a lower gear, use the parking brake, and steer to a safe area.
49. What is the proper way to report a forklift incident?
    Answer: Notify your supervisor and complete an incident report.
50. Why is it important to have an emergency response plan for forklift operations?
    Answer: To ensure a quick and effective response to accidents or emergencies.

You may also visit the official OSHA website (www.osha.gov) and HSE website (www.hse.gov.uk) to verify the standards and requirements for forklift operation, training, and safety.

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Conclusion

We hope that our Free Forklift Test Questions and Answers PDF has provided you with valuable insights into forklift operations, safety, and certification.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced operator, staying informed and adhering to safety standards is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe work environment.

For more resources and downloadable content, visit our website regularly. Safe driving!