Inspect a Forklift
Workplace injuries related to forklift operation in North America average around more than 10,000 each year, according to the statistics from the HRSDC and OSHA. Some injuries result from the lack of proper equipment inspection and maintenance of the machine. Other injuries are due to operator error.
Injuries are not the only issues which are related to the maintenance and operation of lift trucks. One more serious problem is damage to property. Forklift mishaps could lead to damage to sprinklers, overhead pipes, and other machinery and building walls. By completing thorough inspections on a daily basis, you could help reduce lift truck injuries.
You should first turn the engine off prior to checking the forklift. Check the levels of the engine oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid and hydraulic oil. Visually inspect the tires of the machinery looking for indications of wear, correct air pressure and general condition. Visually check the forks on the front of the machine too. Confirm the condition of the heel and top-clip retaining pin. Make sure that the backrest is securely attached. Make sure that the finger guard and overhead are attached. Visually check the stops and cables, the mast chains and the hydraulic hoses too.
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 enough electrolyte levels and which is charged sufficiently. Visually inspect all belts. Check to confirm the location of the owner's instruction manual and make certain it is located in the designated on-board storage compartment. Confirm the hood latch and confirm that it is functioning as it is supposed to. Inspect the seatbelt and make sure it latches securely and is working correctly.
After completing the above steps, turn the engine on. Carefully listen to the engine. Investigate any strange sounds right away. Check that both the parking brake and the service brake are functioning correctly. Confirm that the accelerator and the steering controls are functioning at optimum performance levels.