FAQs Forklift Work Platform

A forklift work platform transforms a common forklift into a people mover that can adjust to any height.
(Courtesy: Monica Zou at flickr.com)

There are a plethora of accessory attachments that can be used to expand the capability of a forklift. One of the most important is the forklift work platform. The work platform transforms a common lift truck into a people mover that can adjust to any height and is ideal to transport a warehouse picker to a particular height of a particular shelf so that he can pick ordered items.

What follows are some frequently asked questions concerning forklift work platforms. It is hoped that the answers will enlighten you to the practicality of this accessory.

Q: What is a forklift work platform and how does it work?
A: A forklift work platform is a forklift attachment that includes a platform or floor with handrails on three sides, a 5-foot high, expanded metal backing on the fourth side, and a powered elbow-like device that raises and lowers the platform. It is attached to the forklift’s forks using sleeves that are located under the platform and then secured to the forklift using a chain with a hook and a tine lock that prevents the platform from sliding forward off the forks. A picker can safely stand on the platform within the handrails while the forklift operator drives him to a particular shelf. There the platform can be lowered or raised to an appropriate level so that the picker can grab items needed to fill an order. It is also ideal for work maintenance personnel who have to measure eave heights or exchange burned-out light bulbs or tubes.

Q: What sizes are offered?
A: There are forklift work platforms that can accommodate one or two workers and are available in sizes from 24-inches x 24-inches to 60-inches x 40-inches. The guardrails come in a range between 36-inches to 42-inches high.

Q: Does it come in more than one style?
A: Actually, you can customize the forklift work platform. For example, you can select the capacity from 500 pounds to 1,000 pounds. You can choose steel or non-conducting poly construction and you can choose the type of gate as well as a standard or anti-slip floor. You can also add casters; light bulb caddies, tool trays and bins so you can have your supplies close by. Each platform meets OSHA standards and they ship assembled or unassembled.

Q: Is the platform referred to by any other names?
A: It goes by many names including aerial work platforms, man baskets, stock pickers, man-lifts and maintenance platforms.