Neglect and abuse are two terms that frequently apply to the treatment of the most fundamental part of a forklift - the forks.

These two pieces of metal are specially shaped, specifically tempered and heavy. They lift tonnes of material regularly. Sometimes operators and owners forget that even steel wears. The generally accepted amount of wear is 10% at the heel. The incredible ratio of 2:1 (at 10% wear) loss in fork capacity is not generally appreciated.

Simply put, if a fork is worn 10% at the heel (on a standard Class 2 fork), fork capacity is reduced by 20%. If a fork is worn 50% at the heel, its capacity is reduced by 80%. Astounding numbers. Astounding negative potential.

There is a very simple way to prevent dangerous breakages and costly replacements. Just perform basic maintenance and adjust the chains. If the chains are regularly inspected and set to accommodate stretching (yes, steel stretches) they should never break under normal conditions. Email me for standard adjustment practices.

Save money. Be safe.

Wayne Chornohus is a forklift consultant with Hunter Industries Ltd. He brings more than 20 years' experience in the forklift and training industries to the Forkliftaction.com community.