Inspect a Forklift
According to HRSDC and OSHA statistics, there are about 10,000 forklift-related worklplace injuries each year within North America. Some injuries are caused by the lack of maintenance of the machinery and proper equipment inspection. Other injuries are because of operator error.
Injuries are not the only concern related to lift truck operation and maintenance. One more serious issue is property damage. Lift truck mishaps could cause damage to overhead pipes, sprinklers, and other machines as well as building walls. By completing thorough inspections on a daily basis, you could help reduce lift truck injuries.
You should first turn off the engine prior to inspecting the forklift. Check the levels of the engine oil, fuel, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. Visually inspect the machine's tires looking for indications of wear, general condition and appropriate air pressure. Visually check the forks on the front of the machinery too. Verify the condition of the heel and top-clip retaining pin. Make sure that the backrest is attached securely. Confirm that both the finger guard and overhead are attached. Visually check the cables and stops, the mast chains and the hydraulic hoses as well.
On LP or liquid propane forklifts, inspect the propane tank. Look for any indications of damage, rust or corrosion. Be sure that the battery has adequate levels of electrolyte and that is adequately charged. Visually inspect all belts. Check to verify the location of the owner's handbook and make certain it is located in the designated on-board storage compartment. Verify the hood latch and make certain that it is operating as it is supposed to. Check the seatbelt and make sure it latches securely and is functioning correctly.
You could turn on the engine after you have completed all the steps mentioned above. Carefully listen to the engine. Investigate any unusual sounds right away. Check that both the service brake and the parking brake are properly working. Confirm that the accelerator and the steering controls are operating at optimum performance levels.