What is the purpose of the overhead guard on a forklift?

The overhead guard on a forklift is designed primarily to protect the operator from falling objects and potential hazards that may occur while operating the forklift. This safety feature is crucial in environments where loads are lifted and transported, as it provides a protective barrier above the driver’s head, reducing the risk of injury from items that could accidentally fall from higher shelves or during loading and unloading operations.

While other options such as increasing speed, alerting other workers, or providing additional lighting might be functionalities associated with a forklift in different contexts, they do not relate to the primary safety function of the overhead guard. Understanding the role of safety features like the overhead guard helps ensure that forklift operators maintain a safe working environment while minimizing risks associated with their tasks.