Last week I stopped by a major home improvement chain and saw this forklift parked in the lawn and garden area. From a distance everything looked normal but then I got closer and immediately saw an issue. Do you see the problem?

Make-shift roof added to forklift.
The wooden board installed on the overhead guard of this forklift creates a major safety hazard for employees, equipment operators, and customers. It also violates OSHA rules and regulations. For the record, it's never a good idea to create make-shift rain guards, sun shields and overhead protection using boards and other scrap materials, connected with wire ties. Unfortunately, several forklift dealers have since shared with me that this is a common industry practice. I was astonished.
Why are plywood roofs on forklifts a problem?
- In this case, the wooden board blocks the operators view of the mast, forks, and load when the load is lifted and extended above the overhead guard. This means that the operator is carrying around tons of material without the ability to see the load at critical times. Yikes!
- The wooden board is not designed to withstand the impact of falling material such as concrete blocks, bricks, stone, metal, and more. Shifting loads and falling objects are daily occurrences in the life of a forklift operator. This is also the third leading cause of injury to operators and a source of significant financial loss for employers.
- The wooden board is not sized properly. Look closely at the photo, you can see damage where the mast has come in contact with the front edge of the board.
- Whoever made this decision to install this wooden board has exposed their employer to substantial risks and liabilities when the accident occurs.
Is there a better option? Absolutely, ProEnclosures premium cab enclosures.

ProEnclosures - The best choice for forklift safety
ProEnclosures, are constructed of hard coat polycarbonate and powder coated steel framing and hardware to meet the most demanding conditions, while providing maximum viewability and protection for operators. No blind spots, 250x stronger than safety glass and resistant to chemicals and scratching. Doesn't crack, shatter, or yellow. Engineered and laser measured to be an exact fit for each make and model of forklift, roofs are available in clear and optional tint. The cost-effective solution for protecting your operators and equipment from the elements and falling debris.
Don't try this at home if you are using anything other than ProEnclosures.
In conclusion, ProEnclosures is a professional solution to mitigate risks and improve forklift safety and comfort. Contact us today for more information.
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