To develop skills required for safe forklift operations, one must understand which characteristics?

Understanding the characteristics of capabilities and limitations is essential for safe forklift operations because it directly impacts how an operator maneuvers the forklift and responds to different work situations. Knowledge of the forklift's capabilities, including its lifting capacity, height reach, and stability, allows an operator to perform tasks safely without overloading the equipment or attempting maneuvers that exceed its design specifications. Similarly, being aware of the limitations, such as terrain considerations and the maximum weight a forklift can handle, ensures that the operator makes informed decisions that prevent accidents.

While make-up and design also play a role in understanding how a forklift operates, and safety protocols are crucial for maintaining a safe work environment, a comprehensive knowledge of capabilities and limitations directly influences the operator's ability to handle the equipment safely and effectively. This combined understanding helps in recognizing potential hazards and enables the operator to respond to various operational scenarios, thereby enhancing overall safety in the workplace.

In conclusion, knowing all characteristics—make-up and design, capabilities and limitations, and safety protocols—comes together to ensure an operator's complete readiness to operate a forklift safely, which is why the best choice is to acknowledge all of these aspects.