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