Forklifts do a lot more than just lift. If attachments such as drum handlers or boom attachments are added, forklifts become a different machine altogether. Material handling equipment doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all manual, and attachments make things more efficient. However, there are a lot of safety aspects that you need to know before using them.

• Know What You’re Working With

Before using any attachment, get familiar with it. That means reading the manual of both the forklift and the attachments. Each comes with its own capacity and quirks. Pretending it’s just “an extra tool” is how pallets end up on the floor.

Load capacity doesn’t magically stay the same as it changes with every attachment. If the forklift is rated for 5000 lbs, that doesn’t mean it can handle the same weight with a side shifter or rotator. Math is part of the job.

• Stay on Solid Ground

Attachments shift a forklift’s center of gravity. A boom or extended form can throw off balance quicker than you would expect. Stick to smooth, flat surfaces. Avoid tight turns and don’t speed up.

• Double Check Connections

Never assume the attachment is locked in place. Inspect couplings, pins, and hydraulic lines before each shift. If anything looks even slightly off, call it out. Skipping a minute of inspection can cost a day or even worse.

Also, make sure the attachment is the right one for the load. For instance, trying to move a round drum with flat forks is a disaster waiting to happen.

• Don’t Forget the Importance of Training

Using attachments is not an “add-on skill.” It requires specific training. Anyone hopping on a forklift with an unfamiliar attachment should be trained, tested, and supervised.

Operators who don’t understand how attachments affect turning, lifting, or visibility are a hazard, both to themselves and to everyone nearby.

• Keep Visibility Clear

Some attachments block the view. If the load is too high or the attachment too bulky, it is time to back up. Reverse driving isn’t a defeat but rather smart. Use a spotter if necessary and keep the horns and lights working. Other workers can’t avoid what they can’t see or hear.

• Understand Attachment Impact on Forklift Controls

Adding specialized attachments doesn’t just change what the forklift can carry—it can change how it behaves. Controls may become more sensitive or respond differently. Operators should test movement functions in an open space before entering tighter work zones.

• Communicate with the Team

If attachments are being used, the entire crew should know. That includes supervisors, spotters, and anyone working nearby. Attachments can change forklift height, swing radius, and noise levels. When everyone’s on the same page, there’s less room for mistakes.

Conclusion

Safety doesn’t end with the forklift itself because attachments change everything. From visibility and control to weight limits and balance, every factor matters. Always inspect, communicate, and train properly. Shortcuts lead to accidents, not efficiency. With the right awareness and preparation, attachments can boost productivity without compromising safety on the floor.