Having concrete blocks that can be handled by forklifts is a time-efficient and convenient benefit that any structure, temporary or permanent, can benefit from. 

In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know about custom concrete forklift blocks: sizes, shapes, and applications.

As an established and trusted concrete provider, PPC Concrete Products aim to provide solutions for people in the construction industry. We supply interlocking concrete blocks, jersey barriers, forklift blocks, and more. 

PPC Concrete Products is here to provide the answers you may be looking for whilst giving you an insight into the quality concrete options we supply. Our supplies are fit for purpose for a variety of construction needs.

The demand for construction is only increasing, on a private and industrial level. Whichever side you fall into, one of our concrete products could be the building block to successes you are looking for, and generally provide no issues with building regulations, not to mention being safe to use.

Can anyone use a forklift?

To operate a forklift in the UK, you don’t need a specific “forklift licence”. However, you must undergo proper training and certification to ensure safe operation. This training is typically provided by accredited training providers and covers both theoretical and practical aspects of forklift operation.

This includes things such as understanding forklift controls and mechanisms by learning how to operate the levers, pedals, and steering wheel. Learning safe operation techniques is critical, mastering safe lifting, lowering, and manoeuvring techniques significantly prevents accidents.

Learning how to use a forklift includes understanding load stability and weight distribution, by ensuring that loads are balanced and secure.   

Pre-operational checks are a significant daily practice, conducting thorough inspections before each use. Finally, it’s paramount to understand emergency procedures, knowing how to respond to potential hazards and accidents can prevent serious injury or worse.

Once you’ve completed the training, you’ll usually receive a certification that validates your competence. This certification is often required by employers to ensure that their forklift operators are qualified and can operate the machinery safely.

It’s important to note that while a formal licence isn’t required, employers may have additional requirements or specific training standards that you need to meet. Always check with your employer or the training provider for specific guidelines.

How do forklifts lift a custom concrete forklift block?

Our forklift blocks are specially moulded in such a way that allows for the forklift’s forks to be securely lodge beneath the block, allowing for safe and secure connection. Additionally, the space for the forklift’s forks is in an area that does not compromise the balance of the block when it is lifted. 

How to move a block on a forklift

To safely move a concrete block with a forklift, follow these steps:

1. Assess the Block and Forklift: Ensure the forklift has the capacity to lift the block’s weight. Visually inspect the block for any damage or unevenness that might affect its stability.
2. Approach the Block: Position the forklift facing the block’s flat side. Slowly and carefully manoeuvre the forks towards the block, aligning them with the aforementioned lifting points.
3. Engage the Forks: Once aligned, gently engage the forks into the lifting points. Avoid jerking movements, as this could damage the block or cause the forklift to become unstable.
4. Lift Slowly and Steadily: Gradually raise the block to a safe height, ensuring it remains stable and balanced. Avoid sudden movements or excessive tilting.
5. Manoeuvre Carefully: When moving the block, use smooth and controlled movements. Avoid sharp turns or sudden stops, as these can cause the block to shift or fall.
6. Place the Block: Position the block carefully at the desired location. Lower the forks slowly and steadily, ensuring the block is placed firmly and securely.

Can any forklift lift a forklift block?

No. The lifting capability of a forklift is inherent to the size, brand, and specifications of the forklift used. Always check with the manufacturer’s specification, and the weight of the block being lifted before attempting to lift it. 

Custom concrete forklift blocks: sizes, shapes and applications

At PPC, we offer two sizes of forklift blocks in one shape. Our forklift blocks come in 1800 x 600 x 600mm (weighing 1560KG) in addition to 1600 x 800 x 800 (weighing 2460KG). When it comes to applications, they can facilitate the support of structures such as:*

Construction and Infrastructure:

• Foundation support: For smaller structures or temporary buildings.
• Retaining walls: For smaller-scale projects.
• Bridge abutments and piers: In smaller-scale bridge construction.
• Road and highway construction: For temporary barriers, supports, or ballast.
• Dam construction: As part of smaller-scale dam projects.

Industrial Applications:

• Counterweights: For balancing machinery and equipment.

• Base plates: For heavy machinery and equipment.

• Load-bearing platforms: For supporting heavy loads.

• Radiation shielding: In specific industrial settings.

Agricultural Applications:

• Livestock feed bunkers and silos: For smaller-scale storage.

• Irrigation pond liners: For smaller ponds and reservoirs.

• Soil erosion control structures: For smaller-scale erosion control projects.

Other Applications:

• Flood barriers: For temporary flood protection. 

• Security barriers: For temporary or low-security applications.

• Landscaping and hardscaping elements: For creating garden features or retaining walls.

• Art installations and sculptures: As building blocks for creative projects.

*Remember that the specific applications will depend on factors like the strength requirements, load-bearing capacity, and the desired level of permanence for the structure. The provider of the concrete is also a key factor. Double-check with a provider first before ordering.

Can I move these blocks without a forklift?

Moving these concrete blocks without a forklift is not recommended due to their significant weight. Attempting to move them manually or with less powerful equipment could lead to serious injury and property damage.

Is it dangerous using a forklift block?

There is a level of inherent danger when using a forklift to lift a forklift block. However, this is prevented with safety protocols. Firstly, the forklift driver must be qualified, trained and physically and mentally able.

Secondly, the environment can play a key role in the danger that can appear when moving a forklift block. You have to ensure the area the forklift will move around is clear of obstructions, has no small cramped areas to manoeuvre, or sharp turns. Weather can also play a part in this if the floor is flooded, icy, or unstable. 

In addition, you should ensure there are no other persons in the pathway the forklift takes, this prevents anyone from being in any potential blind spots of the forklift operator. Any professional construction project, big or small, will plan for efficient operations, this means taking safety first and acting accordingly. 

How do forklift blocks connect?

Our forklift blocks contain an interlocking feature. This is facilitated by studs at the top of the block, slotting into recesses at the bottom of another block. When aligned in a specific way, this allows you to create a stable, extremely secure wall, without the need for mortar or additional binding materials. 

Once connected, it is near impossible to disconnect these blocks without any manual intervention. This would be by removing the blocks one at a time, starting from the last one placed.

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