Page 47 - HUB-4 Magazine Issue 94

Certora Training
Rotators vs Rotating Forks:
Selecting the Correct
Attachment for the Job
In material handling operations, the terminology
can be confusing especially in the case of fork
rotators and rotating forks. Whilst they might
sound similar, these attachments have their own
unique operational uses, strengths and limitations.
Understanding the difference helps operators choose the right
attachment for safe and efficient load movement and also
request the correct training course.
Functions and Uses
Fork Rotators
The forks are attached to a rotating frame meaning that the
entire fork carriage will rotate, typically up to 360 degrees. Fork
rotators allow for controlled rotation of the load for disposal or
repositioning without manual handling.
This attachment is commonly used to emptying bins, skips, or
containers, handle waste, recyclables, or bulk materials. If your
site has drums or hoppers, you will normally find fork rotators on
your forklift trucks for tipping.
Rotating Forks
In contrast, the carriage plate does not rotate, but the forks
themselves rotate independently of each but still work as a pair.
This allows the width of the fork to clamp the load. Depending
on the design, when rotating forks are used in this way, they can
be used as a clamp or to carry out a lift that cannot be
completed in a standard fork setup.
Predominately found in industries where bulk handling is
required such as building materials, waste and resource
management and warehousing and distribution. This attachment
is normally used to handle palletised and bulk loads that require
clamping.
are utilising rotating forks with a live load. As the load is tipped
the movement of the load and the associated weight can result
in a tip over being carried out incorrectly.
With rotating forks, operatives should never clamp a load with
the thin part of the forks. The reason for this is that this part of
the forks do not provide enough sufficient contact on the load,
meaning that operators risk a dropped or damaged load.
If operators are unsure about any information regarding capacity,
load types and controls, operators should always refer back to
the manufacturer's specifications.
Safety Reminder
When using fork rotators, it’s important to remember that the
rotation of any load will affect the stability of the machine. As
the rotator tilts or inverts a load, the weight distribution shifts
and so does the load centre. Operatives need to understand the
effect that the attachment has on the stability to prevent
incidents such as tip overs. These have occurred when operatives
Compliance and Training
Legislation within the UK enforces that lifting attachments need
to comply with LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equip0ment
Regulations 1998) and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work
Equipment Regulations 1998). Among other requirements, these
regulations state that lifting attachments should be routinely
inspections, operators need to be trained, and the equipment
must be suitable for purpose.
Training is key to safe operation of any machine. Operators must
understand how each attachment works, including variations in
control mechanisms (hydraulic, mechanical etc) and how load
capacity is affected when attachments are fitted. Pre-use
inspections are important in order to identify any damage in
hydraulics, gears, or other mechanical elements as well as to
make sure that the rotation mechanisms are fully functional and
safe to use.
Operators must also be taught best practices for handling loads
correctly. This includes ensuring that loads are balanced and
secure before rotating, knowing when to apply the brake and
shifting to neutral before rotating the load and operators should
be aware that they should never attempt to operate with the
forklift truck in motion while performing rotation manoeuvres.
Using the wrong attachment can lead to load instability,
equipment damage, or safety risks. Always match the attachment
to the task—and ensure operators are trained in its correct use.
For further support regarding forklift attachments, please
get in touch with a member of our team today who will be
happy to help – 01246 386900.
www.hub-4.com Sept/Oct - Issue 94
| p47 |