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