Forklift Attachment Rating
A forklift attachment rating is the maximum safe load capacity of a specific attachment, which must be integrated into the forklift's modified rated capacity when it alters load center, reach, or stability. Under WorkSafeBC, if the manufacturer's rating for the attachment is unavailable, the modified rated capacity must be certified by a professional engineer to ensure safe operation.
On a manufacturing or shop floor, operators must read the attachment's rated load, verify the forklift nameplate or updated capacity plate, and confirm the combination rating before lifting. The attachment must be installed only as specified by the forklift manufacturer or a professional engineer, with the rated capacity visibly posted. For approved work platforms, the truck/attachment combination must meet stability requirements and load factors. Supervisors or maintenance teams ensure compatibility and secure attachment, using the lowest applicable rating among the forklift, attachment, and any reduced rating due to load center changes.
- Ignoring derating from load center change: attachments that extend the load farther from the carriage reduce capacity, leading to overload errors.
- Using an attachment without an approved rating plate or engineering certification: if manufacturer specs are missing or the truck is modified, WorkSafeBC requires professional engineer certification.
- Treating the attachment rating as independent of the forklift: the attachment's rating does not override the truck's capacity, mast limits, stability envelope, or configuration-specific restrictions.
Is the attachment rating the same as the forklift's rated capacity?
No. The attachment's rating is only valid within its designed conditions; the combined system rating must account for altered moment arm, stability, and load center.
When is a professional engineer required?
When the manufacturer's specification cannot be produced, the equipment is modified, damage or wear may reduce capacity, or the equipment is used in a way that changes the safe working load.
What if the attachment swings the load or raises the load center?
WorkSafeBC notes these features can significantly change forklift capacity and stability, so the load rating must be revised accordingly.