A forklift data plate is a physical, legally required tag that contains vital information about the forklift’s capabilities and limitations. It includes details about the forklift, eg, manufacturer, model, serial number, load capacity, and centre and functional attributes. It is usually placed in the operator compartment as a constant reference for safety and compliance while maneuvering.
What Information is on a Forklift Data Plate?
- Manufacturer’s Name – For identification and traceability.
- Model Number- For accurate parts ordering, usage compliance, and fleet management.
- Serial Number – Unique identification that enables service interval monitoring and recall tracking.
- Load Capacity and Centre – To ensure a continually safe operation.
- Lift Height – To minimise the risk of tipping and ensure suitability for your applications.
- Truck Weight – To calculate the counterbalance capacity and ensure safe mezzanine operation.
- Tire Type – To guarantee correct replacement to preserve stability and capacity.
- Power Source – Indicates suitability for indoor/outdoor use, stating emissions impact and flammability.
- Attachments and Capacity Deration – To avoid affecting the lifting capacity.
- Mast Type – To understand the operational restrictions of the forklift.
- Operating Speed – To outline stopping distances, load stability and turning stability.
- Compliance Standards – To assure operators of the vehicle’s compliance with safety benchmarks.
How do Forklift Data Plate Requirements Encourage Safety?
Your forklift data plate is your guide to safe operation. The most common accidents during forklift operation are tipping and dropping loads. The usual cause for these types of accidents is overloading, which your forklift data plate can help to prevent. The information on your data plate clearly defines the limitations of your forklift so you have a complete understanding of its capabilities. Your forklift operators will always be acutely aware of your forklift’s capacity to complete tasks and recognise the need for a more suitable replacement when necessary.
Do all Forklifts Come With Data Plates?
All forklifts are legally required to have a legible, permanently affixed data plate upon purchase. This is the responsibility of the manufacturer. Operating a forklift without a data plate, or one which is damaged, illegible or incorrect, can result in fines, legal liabilities, or criminal charges in the event of an incident. LOLER’s “Thorough Examinations” will check the condition of your data plate and its presence on your vehicle.
Used forklifts should also include their original data plate. However, if the plate is damaged or missing, the owner of the forklift is accountable for sourcing a replacement from the manufacturer or service provider.
I’ve Modified My Forklift, Do I Need a New Data Plate?
Any modifications to your forklift could impact its capacity, so you must install a new or supplemental data plate to reflect this.
What Forklift Modifications Require a New Data Plate?
Attachments
Attaching a side-shifter, rotator, bale champ, carpet boom, drum clamp, crane jib, or fork extensions will necessitate a new data plate. This is because they add weight to the front of the forklift and affect the load centre.
New Tire Types
Fitting tires different from those listed on your forklift’s current data plate can affect its weight distribution, impacting its stability and lifting capacity.
Swapping Counterweights
Any alteration to the counterweights directly affects the stability of your forklift and demands a recalculation of its capacity. This information must be reflected on an amended data plate for operational safety.
Structural Alterations
Changes to the fundamental structure of your forklift will affect its original design specifications, stability, and capacity. Significant modifications will demand the issuance of a new data plate.
Engine / Power System Changes
This is another major alteration that could affect your forklift’s weight, balance, and performance characteristics.
Modifying your forklift will require written approval from its original manufacturer and the employment of specialised persons to recalculate its data for your new plate. This will ensure your equipment’s longevity, the safety of your operators, and compliance with legal regulations.
New and Used Forklifts From Trucks Direct
Trucks Direct is a UK-leading provider of new and used forklifts, delivering first-class vehicles to facilities across the UK. Our stock is all LOLER-certified and includes a legible data plate for your safety and compliance. We offer industry-beating finance options, 12-month LOLER certification, up to two years warranty, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Browse our website today for new and used forklift trucks and get in touch with us to make an inquiry.
