Which of the following actions is recommended when traveling on a ramp?

• A. Keep forks low, tilt back, travel straight, avoid turns on the slope, and maintain a controlled, steady speed.
• B. Raise forks high and turn on the slope.
• C. Stop halfway up the ramp.
• D. Move the load to the side on the ramp.

Answer: (A)

Stability on slopes relies on keeping the load close and balanced while you move. Keeping forks low places the load near the ground, which lowers the center of gravity and reduces the chance of tipping forward if the forklift encounters a bump or the load shifts. Tilting the mast back helps secure the load against forward movement, counteracting any tendency for the load to pitch forward as you move. Traveling straight avoids side-to-side forces that can upset balance, and maintaining a controlled, steady speed prevents sudden weight shifts or loss of traction.

Raising forks high raises the center of gravity and makes tipping more likely, turning on the slope disrupts balance and can cause a rollover, stopping midway up the ramp can lead to loss of momentum or stall on the incline, and moving the load to the side on the ramp shifts weight and increases tipping risk.