Inspect a Forklift
Workplace injuries related to forklift usage within North America average about more than 10,000 every year, according to the statistics from OSHA and the HRSDC. Some injuries are caused by the lack of maintenance of the machine and proper equipment inspection. 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 concern is damage to property. Lift truck mishaps could cause damage to sprinklers, overhead pipes, and other machinery and building walls. By completing thorough inspections every day, you could help reduce forklift injuries.
When beginning an inspection, turn the engine off. Check the levels of the fuel, engine oil, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. Visually inspect the machine's tires looking for signs of wear, general condition and appropriate air pressure. Visually inspect 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 firmly attached. Make sure that both the finger guard and overhead are attached. Visually inspect the cables and stops, the mast chains and the hydraulic hoses too.
You should check the propane tank if you are utilizing liquid propane of LP forklifts. Check for any indications of damage, rust or corrosion. Be certain that the battery has adequate levels of electrolyte and which is sufficiently charged. Visually check all belts. Check to confirm the location of the owner's handbook and make sure it is located in the designated on-board storage compartment. Confirm the hood latch and make sure that it is functioning as it is supposed to. Check the seatbelt and make sure it is working correctly and latches securely.
After completing the above steps, turn the engine on. Carefully listen to the engine. Investigate any strange sounds immediately. Make sure that both the parking brake and the service brake are functioning correctly. Confirm that the accelerator and the steering controls are operating at optimum performance levels.