Question 1

When leaving a forklift unattended (operator more than 25 feet away or out of view), you must:

Accepted Answer

OSHA defines unattended as being 25 feet away or out of sight. The truck must be completely secured: forks down, engine off, brakes set.

Question 2

If the operator dismounts but stays within 25 feet and in view of the truck, the forks must be:

Accepted Answer

Even if just stepping off briefly nearby, the load engaging means (forks) must be fully lowered to preventing tripping or falling hazards.

Question 3

Is it permissible to allow a passenger to ride on the forklift?

Accepted Answer

Passengers are prohibited unless the truck is specifically designed with a dedicated passenger seat and restraint system.

Question 4

When approaching an intersection or a blind corner, the operator must:

Accepted Answer

Operators must slow down and sound the horn at cross aisles and other locations where vision is obstructed.

Question 5

When driving behind another forklift, you should maintain a safe following distance of approximately:

Accepted Answer

OSHA 1910.178(n)(1) states that a safe distance of approximately three truck lengths must be maintained from the truck ahead.

Question 6

When driving over railroad tracks, you should cross them:

Accepted Answer

Crossing diagonally allows one wheel to cross at a time, smoothing the ride and preventing the load from jarring loose.

Question 7

Before driving onto a semi-trailer, you must ensure the trailer wheels are:

Accepted Answer

The brakes of highway trucks must be set and wheel chocks placed under the rear wheels to prevent the trailer from rolling away from the dock.

Question 8

Horseplay and stunt driving are:

Accepted Answer

OSHA 1910.178(n)(9) states: Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted.

Question 9

Operators must keep their arms and legs:

Accepted Answer

Limbs outside the running lines can be crushed against walls, racks, or other obstacles. Keep all body parts inside the protective cage.

Question 10

Can you use a forklift to lift a person to change a lightbulb?

Accepted Answer

Lifting personnel requires a platform specifically designed for that purpose (with guardrails), securely attached to the carriage.

Question 11

If a dockboard or bridge plate appears loose or unsecured:

Accepted Answer

Portable dockboards must be secured against displacement (anchored) before driving over them to prevent slipping out.

Question 12

When traveling with a load, the forks should be approximately:

Accepted Answer

Keeping the load low (4-6 inches) maximizes stability. Driving with a raised load is a major tip-over hazard.

Question 13

What must you do if you encounter a wet or slippery floor?

Accepted Answer

Speed must be reduced to a safe level for the surface conditions to prevent sliding or tipping.

Question 14

When parking a forklift, the parking brake must be set:

Accepted Answer

Brakes must be set whenever the truck is parked to prevent unintended movement.

Question 15

Can you pass another forklift traveling in the same direction?

Accepted Answer

Passing is permitted if safe, but prohibited at intersections, blind spots, or other dangerous locations.

Question 16

When entering an elevator with a forklift:

Accepted Answer

Operators must ensure the elevator capacity is sufficient, enter squarely, and shut down the truck once inside.

Question 17

It is unlawful to allow anyone to stand or pass:

Accepted Answer

No person shall be allowed to stand or pass under the elevated portion of any truck due to the risk of hydraulic failure or falling loads.

Question 18

You should use the reverse gear to slow down (plugging):

Accepted Answer

Plugging (reversing direction to brake) is a standard braking method for many electric forklifts but can damage internal combustion transmissions unless specifically designed for it.

Question 19

Running over loose objects (wood, plastic) on the floor:

Accepted Answer

Loose dunnage can shift unexpectedly, causing loss of steering control or displacing the center of gravity.

Question 20

If a trailer is not coupled to a tractor (semi-truck), what extra precaution is needed?

Accepted Answer

A heavy forklift entering an uncoupled trailer can cause the trailer to tip forward (nose dive). Fixed jacks support the nose.

Question 21

Operating an internal combustion forklift in a poorly ventilated area can cause:

Accepted Answer

Carbon Monoxide (CO) buildup is a deadly hazard in enclosed spaces. Ventilation limits must not be exceeded.

Question 22

The speed limit for a forklift is:

Accepted Answer

OSHA does not set a specific mph number. The rule is to operate at a speed that permits the vehicle to be brought to a stop in a safe manner.

Question 23

When placing a load on a rack, you should:

Accepted Answer

The sequence is: Approach, Stop, Lift, Drive In, Lower. Never drive with the load raised high except for final positioning.

Question 24

If you cannot see over the load:

Accepted Answer

If the load obstructs the forward view, the operator is required to travel with the load trailing (in reverse).

Question 25

Using a forklift to open or close freight car doors:

Accepted Answer

Using forks to pry doors open is prohibited. It damages the door and the mast.

Question 26

When turning a forklift, the rear end swings out. This is known as:

Accepted Answer

Forklifts steer with the rear wheels, causing the rear counterweight to swing wide. Operators must account for this clearance.

Question 27

Fire aisles and access to fire equipment must:

Accepted Answer

Fire aisles, access to stairways, and fire equipment must always be kept clear.

Question 28

Before driving a forklift into a truck trailer, you should verify:

Accepted Answer

All three checks are critical to prevent the forklift from falling through the floor or off the dock.

Question 29

If a forklift is used to elevate a worker, the platform must have:

Accepted Answer

Safety platforms must have guardrails, toe boards, and be securely locked to the fork carriage.

Question 30

When traveling on a grade (slope) of more than 10 percent with a load:

Accepted Answer

Keep the load uphill to prevent it from sliding off and to maintain weight on the drive wheels. (Up forward, Down reverse).

Question 31

Who is allowed to operate a forklift?

Accepted Answer

OSHA requires specific training and practical evaluation for all operators.

Question 32

When using a spinner knob (suicide knob) on the steering wheel:

Accepted Answer

Spinner knobs are permitted when the operation requires one-hand steering, but they can be a hazard (kickback). Most sit-down trucks allow them.

Question 33

Before operating a forklift, you must:

Accepted Answer

Standard startup procedure includes securing oneself and ensuring the path is clear.

Question 34

Which of the following is a sign of Carbon Monoxide poisoning?

Accepted Answer

CO poisoning symptoms mimic the flu. If experienced indoors with IC trucks, evacuate immediately.

Question 35

You should check overhead clearance:

Accepted Answer

Always verify clearance for pipes, lights, sprinklers, and door headers before lifting or passing.

Question 36

Can you use the forks to push a disabled forklift?

Accepted Answer

Bulldozing or pushing places stress on the mast and carriage that can cause failure. Use proper towing equipment.

Question 37

When parked near a railroad track, the forklift must be at least ___ feet from the nearest rail.

Accepted Answer

Standards typically require keeping 8.5 feet clearance from the center of the track to avoid being struck by trains.

Question 38

What is the rule for arms and legs when operating a stand-up reach truck?

Accepted Answer

Stand-up operators are at high risk of crushing injuries if they extend limbs outside the compartment, especially when backing up near racks.

Question 39

If a forklift operator is involved in an accident or near-miss, they must:

Accepted Answer

OSHA 1910.178(l)(4) requires refresher training if the operator is involved in an accident or near-miss incident.

Question 40

When parking on an incline, you must:

Accepted Answer

OSHA 1910.178(m)(5)(iii) requires that if a truck is parked on an incline, the wheels must be blocked (chocked).

Safe Operating Procedures Practice Questions

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