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Not to get into the definition part of things, here is what I usually tell customers. If you are removing the device that bolts onto the carriage and rises above the back of the forks several feet (whatever we as a group decide to call that device), then you would need to be sure of several things. First, that it will not casue a safety problem with your loads. If the loads are very tall and not very tightly held together than removing that device may create a hazard for the operator and would not be a great idea (although you might request a shorter version from the local dealer of that brand of lift truck) that might aide in stability, but still keep your overhead clearance acceptable. The other issue on some forklifts, is that if you remove that device, it will allow the forks to be pushed right off the end of the carriage, if the fork pins are flipped up or fall out. Where I see this is an operator is adjusting the forks and pulls one towards his or herself and it slides off and smashes their toes, which would have been possible with the guard being in place. Be sure by taking it off you do not create another hazard, ensure that there is a welded tab stop (on many newer lifts) or some type of bolt or other stop to prevent forks sliding off.

In short if the customer has removed the devices from select forklifts because it was necessary to provide addtional overhead clearances (to ensure safety) AND if this does not create an additional hazard with regard to the loads or forks, then they should be ok from a compliance standpoint. Having some documentation of this and why it was done would be a good idea. What happens in reality is that I go into a place to do a pre training survey and see 20 devices sitting in the back of the warehouse on a pallet and no one knows why they were removed or when, which is not really a great idea and can send up a flag with an entity like OSHA. They typically are not keen on seeing piles of removed safety guards in cold storage with no reason.
  • Posted 10 Aug 2007 00:11
  • By Panthertrainer
  • joined 11 Jun'04 - 48 messages
  • Ohio, United States

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Fact of the week
The use of "hello" as a telephone greeting is attributed to Thomas Edison. He is said to have suggested it as a simpler alternative to other greetings, such as "Do I get you?" or "Are you there?".