Forklift seats come in various types, including ultra-soft and tilting models. Replacing hard seats with softer versions can boost morale and reduce injuries. Swivel seats, adjustable tracks, armrests, and heated seats can also improve comfort and safety for operators.
There are several types of forklift seats available as factory direct replacements or as upgraded seats. They include ultra-soft forklift seats designed for comfort and tilting models that offer little cushioning, but plenty of ability to tilt up to remove rainwater from the seat. Many models and styles of forklift seats are similar to other models, with only a small seat differentiator feature to differentiate the seat from others. Some seats offer leg and shoulder protection in the event of a rollover, while others offer neck and head protection with a high back.
One of the most uncomfortable forklift features, for many operators, is the seat. Many of the original forklift seats are made from very hard foam to increase the life of the seat, and sitting in this type of seat for an extended period of time can be very uncomfortable. Replacing hard forklift seats with softer versions can not only boost employee morale, but it can reduce injuries related to the unforgiving nature of stock seat materials. Even the slightest shock can be transmitted through the rigid seat and into the operator’s hips and spine, creating pain points and injuries.
Some forklift seats are available on a swivel base to allow the operator to get on and off the machine without twisting the torso, which can lead to injury. The use of swivel seats can also eliminate the possibility of hitting the operator’s knees on the steering wheel and causing injury. Choosing forklift seats with adjustable under-seat tracks can provide comfort options for operators of different sizes. This can also translate into better forklift control and operation by placing the operator in a more comfortable seating position relative to the steering wheel, pedals and other mast controls.
Seats equipped with armrests can also offer the operator a more comfortable working posture. The armrests can be used to place an inventory sheet while the operator executes a specific order. When used in cold climates, electrically heated seats can often allow the operator to work much longer between breaks, thereby increasing the operator’s productivity during a typical shift. Regardless of why forklift seats are changed, the end goal is often to provide a more comfortable machine for the operator to work on. This equates to less downtime due to poor blood circulation in the legs and feet, as well as increased safety by allowing the operator to have better visibility from a seat that can be conveniently adjusted to his needs.
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