Inspect a Forklift
OSHA and HRSDC report that over 10,000 workplace injuries related to fork lifts happen each year. Operator error is the cause of many of these mishaps. Lack of appropriate equipment inspection and maintenance results in many others. Forklift maintenance and operation is not just the cause of personal injuries, but also of damage to property. Forklifts can damage building structures, overhead pipes and sprinklers, and other equipment when improperly operated. The following daily inspections should be done in order to reduce the likelihood of forklift accidents.
Turn off the engine before checking different fluid levels: engine oil, fuel, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. The tires should be inspected for signs of wear and tear. Check the tire air pressure. Check the condition of the forks. The load backrest should be attached firmly. Do a visual inspection of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. Afterward carry out an inspection of the mast chains, hydraulic hoses, cables and stops. Ensure that both the finger and overhead guards are attached firmly.
LP forklifts have propane tanks that need to be checked for indications of corrosion, damage or rust. Test the battery's electrolyte levels and charge. All belts should be inspected for wear. Check to make sure the owner's instruction manual is kept on-board the forklift inside a storage compartment. Check the seat belt to make certain the latches are secure. Test the hood latch to ensure it is functioning as it should.
To make certain there are no unusual engine sounds, start the engine up and listen for any irregularities. If there are, investigate at once. Test the steering controls and the accelerator. The parking break and the service break should be functioning properly.
To guarantee proper functioning in both forward and reverse, the tilt control and drive control must be checked. The functioning of the lowering control, the hoist and attachment control needs periodic checking. Test the lights and horn. Then check the heater, defroster and wipers to make sure they are working well. Check every gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.