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"Forklift safety begins with daily machine inspection."

Forklift safety begins each shift with an inspection of the equipment before use.  For each shift that the equipment is in use, an inspection needs to be made. Obvious defects can be found from a quick visual inspection of the forklift. 

Begin with the tires.  Are they round and black?  Is rubber missing so that the smooth transit of the vehicle is compromised?  In the case if pneumatic tires, are they sufficiently inflated to hold the weight that is to be carried?  An air pressure gauge may be required to ensure the proper pressure, but excessive air loss can be noted visually.

Next, test the horn and other alarms that are required in your operation.  Some operations require a backup alarm, if so engage reverse gear and listen for the alarm.  Still other operations require an alarm for all movement.  In this case test the alarm in forward gear as well as reverse.

Test the lights for proper illumination.  If your forklift is equipped with brake lights or signal lights, test them as well.

Check the battery to ensure it is secure.  Check the voltmeter on the instrument cluster if so equipped to ensure the battery voltage is correct.  In some operations, you may also check the fluid level in the battery as well.

Test the controller for proper operation and release.

Look at the lift chains, cables, forks and mast assembly and take note of any abnormal wear, cracks or breaks.   Check for proper lubrication of the lift assembly.

Test the brakes for pedal height and holding power.  Also check the parking or emergency brake.

Turn the steering wheel left and right and look for play or loose motion in the steering mechanism.  Visually check the steer axle to make sure there are no excessively worn or loose parts

Operate all hydraulic controls and verify proper operation.  Look for any signs of leakage and verify the correct level in the hydraulic fluid reservoir.

Check the fuel system for sufficient fuel level.  Checks for leaks visually and be aware of any smells of leaking fuel.  Propane fuel systems will sometimes ice up at a leak point and there will be a smell.

Ensure that the forklift is clean and free of grease, oil, lint or paper dust.  Accumulations of these materials can easily start a fire on the lift.

Verify that all guards are in place and improper working condition.  Ensure that there is no damage to the overhead cage and that the securing bolts are properly affixed.  Ensure that there are no coverings that would obscure vision of lifted loads.

Verify that all gauges are working properly and are in the acceptable ranges when the machine is in operation.

Check the seat belt.  Make sure there are no cuts, tears or frays that would compromise the holding power of the belt.  Ensure that the latching mechanism works and securely hold the belt. Ensue that the mounting bolts are secure.

For propane powered lifts, ensure that the tank is secure in its mounting brackets. Ensure that the fittings are tight and there is sufficient level to begin the shift.

Remove the dipstick from the engine and verify that the engine oil level is correct.  Note the color of the oil and look for any obvious contaminants.

Check the transmission fluid level and color.  Note any unusual smell to the oil.

If your forklift is equipped with windshield wipers, verify their operation.

Check that all nameplates that indicate the model and serial number of the unit are in place and legible.  Compare the load rating to the tasks to be performed and ensure that the lift is capable of its intended use.

Verify that the exhaust system is free of leaks and that the muffler and flame arrestors are functioning properly.

Check the fire extinguisher charge.  The indicator should be in the green zone.  If equipped with a dry chemical extinguisher, shake the bottle to ensure that the powder flows freely and is not compacted in the canister.

Be sure to note any other defects that might impair the safe operation of the forklift.

The above procedure is just a starting point for safety.  You will need to add inspection items that are unique to your operation.  As always, the forklift operator is ultimately responsible for his own safety and for the safe operation of the vehicle.  The writer of this or any other procedure based on this checklist can in no way assume any liability for the safe operation.

If any defects are noted in the inspection, then repairs must be arranged before the unit is put into operation.  To insure that the forklift is not used, place a sign or tag in the unit indicating that repairs are needed before operation.  Contact the appropriate persons responsible for repair.  Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself unless you are qualified.

If you find that replacement parts are needed, purchase them from www.forkliftpartsunlimted.com.

For a sample inspection form: click here

Or click here for the Spanish version.

For a sample "Do not operate tag" click here.

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