EX-Rated RICO Forklifts: Specialized Solutions for Hazardous Environments

Forklifts play a critical role in keeping operations moving across many industries. While traditional forklifts are ideal for most warehouses and manufacturing facilities, some environments require additional safety measures due to the presence of flammable vapors, gases, or combustible dust.

For these applications, EX-rated (explosion-proof) forklifts are often required. Wolter works with RICO Manufacturing to provide EX-rated forklifts designed specifically for hazardous and classified environments, helping customers operate safely while meeting regulatory and insurance requirements.

What Is an EX-Rated Forklift?

An EX-rated forklift is engineered and certified to operate in hazardous areas where ignition risks must be carefully controlled. These forklifts are designed to minimize sparks, heat, and static electricity that could potentially ignite flammable materials.

EX-rated forklifts are typically certified under recognized standards such as UL 583 and approved for use in Class I or Class II hazardous locations, depending on the specific application.

Traditional forklifts continue to serve most material handling needs very well. EX-rated forklifts are used when the operating environment requires additional safeguards.

Industries That Commonly Use EX-Rated Forklifts

EX-rated RICO forklifts are commonly used in industries where hazardous materials are part of daily operations, including:

• Chemical manufacturing and processing
• Paint, coatings, and adhesives
• Oil and gas refining, storage, and processing
• Pharmaceutical production
• Aerospace manufacturing
• Automotive component manufacturing
• Plastics, resins, and rubber production
• Paper, pulp, and textile facilities

In these environments, forklifts may operate near flammable liquids, vapors, powders, or dusts that require specialized equipment.

Key Features of RICO EX-Rated Forklifts
RICO EX-rated forklifts are purpose-built for hazardous locations and typically include:

• Explosion-proof electrical enclosures
• Sealed and protected wiring systems
• Static-conductive tires
• Controlled surface temperatures
• Spark-resistant materials on critical components

These features help support safe operation while maintaining familiar forklift performance for operators.

RICO EX-Rated Forklift Options Available Through Wolter

Wolter offers access to a wide range of RICO EX-rated material handling solutions, allowing customers to select equipment that fits their application:

Sit-Down Counterbalance Forklifts

• Common choice for indoor material handling
• Available in 8,000–10,000 lb capacities
• Familiar controls and operator layout

Walk-Behind and Stand-Up Forklifts

• Ideal for tight aisles and confined spaces
• Well-suited for shorter runs and precise handling

Specialty and Custom EX Equipment

• Reach trucks for racking applications
• Straddle and specialty forklifts
• EX-rated pallet trucks, tuggers, and platform vehicles
• Custom-engineered solutions for unique facility requirements

Choosing the Right Forklift for the Environment

Selecting the right forklift is about matching the equipment to the operating conditions. In hazardous or classified environments, EX-rated RICO forklifts provide a proven, compliant solution designed to support safety, reliability, and productivity.

Wolter works closely with customers to evaluate facility conditions, load requirements, and regulatory needs, ensuring the right solution is in place from day one.

Contact Wolter to learn more about EX-rated RICO forklifts and how we can help support safe material handling in your operation.