What is UL 720?

UL 720, also known as the "Standard for Safety for Powered Fork Lift Trucks" is a technical standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to ensure the safe operation of powered industrial trucks. This standard sets guidelines for design, construction, performance, and testing of forklifts to prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage.

The Purpose of UL 720

The primary purpose of UL 720 is to establish minimum safety requirements for powered forklift trucks. These requirements are essential for protecting operators, bystanders, and company assets from potential hazards associated with forklift use. By adhering to the guidelines set forth in UL 720, manufacturers can produce forklifts that meet the necessary safety standards and reduce the risks associated with their operation.

Key Requirements of UL 720

UL 720 covers various aspects of forklift design, construction, and performance. Some key requirements include:

Electrical safety: Ensuring proper grounding, insulation, and protection against electrical hazards.

Stability and load capacity: Verifying that the forklift is stable under different load conditions and does not exceed its intended load capacity.

Control devices: Evaluating the design and functionality of control devices such as brakes, steering mechanisms, and warning systems.

Operator visibility: Requiring adequate visibility from the operator's position to minimize blind spots and improve overall safety.

Fire prevention: Implementing measures to prevent fires, such as reducing the risk of fuel leaks and using fire-resistant materials.

Compliance with UL 720

To ensure compliance with UL 720, manufacturers submit their forklifts for testing and certification by recognized third-party laboratories. These laboratories evaluate the forklifts based on the standard's requirements and issue certificates of compliance if the forklifts meet the necessary safety criteria. Companies purchasing forklifts can verify compliance by checking for the UL mark or certificate issued by the testing laboratory.

In conclusion, UL 720 is a technical standard developed to establish safety requirements for powered forklift trucks. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers ensure the design, construction, and performance of forklifts meet minimum safety requirements, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and property damage associated with these vehicles.