Inspect a Forklift
OSHA and HRSDC report that over 10,000 workplace injuries connected to fork lifts take place each year. Driver error is the reason for many of these accidents. Lack of proper equipment check and maintenance causes many others. Operation and maintenance of a forklift 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 operated incorrectly. The following day by day check ups must be done so as to lessen the possibility of forklift accidents.
Turn the engine off before inspecting various fluid levels: fuel, engine oil, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. The tires should be inspected for indications of wear and tear. Check the air pressure in the tires. Check the forks' condition. The load backrest should be securely attached. Do a visual inspection of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. After that perform an inspection of the hydraulic hoses, mast chains, 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 charge and electrolyte levels. All belts must be checked for wear. Check to make certain the owner's handbook is stored on-board the forklift inside a storage compartment. Test the seat belt to make sure the latches are secure. Test the hood latch to make sure that it is working as it should.
Start the forklift and listen to the engine noise to make sure there are no unusual sounds. If there are, investigate at once. Test the steering controls and the accelerator. The parking break and the service break must be correctly functioning.
The drive control and tilt control should be checked to ensure proper functioning in both forward and reverse. Test the functioning of the hoist and lowering control, and the attachment control. Check the horn and lights. Afterward check the heater, defroster and wipers to make sure they are functioning smoothly. Inspect every gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.