When is it inappropriate to leave a forklift unattended?

Leaving a forklift unattended when the forks are raised is inappropriate because it poses significant safety risks. Raised forks can obstruct visibility for other operators and pedestrians in the area, creating a hazard of accidents or injuries. Moreover, an unattended forklift with raised forks can potentially fall over or cause other equipment to be damaged if accidentally bumped. Safety protocols emphasize that forklifts should always be left in a safe position, which means lowering the forks to the ground to minimize risks when the operator is not present.

While moving the forklift to a different location, when other operators are available, or when busy in the loading area might be contexts to consider the status of the forklift, the critical safety concern remains that leaving a forklift unattended with its forks elevated is inherently dangerous and goes against standard safety practices.