Definition of load centre on a forklift truck
From the operator's point of view one of the most important dimensions on the forklift truck is the load centre. This is defined as the distance from the front face of the forks to the centre of gravity of the load and the internationally recognised standard for this dimension is 500 mm.
Other dimensions are used in certain circumstances. For example a huge container handler on the dockside might have a load centre of 1000 mm or more. Similarly a narrow aisle, man up, turret truck may have a small load centre of only 400 mm. Before the UK went metric the common load centre was 24 inches and this is still found occasionally on some older trucks. For a much more detailed write up on forklift load centres check this page.
Disclaimer. The legislative information contained on this web site is my interpretation of the law based on many years in the health and safety business. A definitive interpretation can only be given by the courts. I will therefore not be held responsible for any accident/incident/prosecution arising as a consequence of anyone using any information obtained from this web site.