Inspect a Forklift
Workplace injuries related to forklift usage in North America average roughly over 10,000 each year, according to the statistics from the HRSDC and OSHA. Several injuries are caused by the lack of proper equipment inspection and maintenance of the machine. 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 problem is damage to property. Lift truck mishaps could cause damage to overhead pipes, sprinklers, and other equipment and building walls. By completing thorough inspections on a daily basis, you can help lessen lift truck injuries.
You should first turn the engine off prior to inspecting the forklift. Check the levels of the engine oil, fuel, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. Visually inspect the machine's tires looking for indications of wear, correct air pressure and general condition. Visually check the forks on the front of the equipment as well. Verify the condition of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. Make certain that the backrest is attached securely. Confirm that both the overhead and finger guards are attached. Visually inspect the stops and cables, the mast chains and the hydraulic hoses as well.
On LP or liquid propane forklifts, inspect the propane tank. Check for any signs of damage, rust or corrosion. Be certain that the battery has adequate levels of electrolyte and that is sufficiently charged. Visually inspect all belts. Check to confirm the location of the owner's instruction manual and make sure it is situated in the designated on-board storage compartment. Confirm the hood latch and make sure that it is functioning as it is supposed to. Inspect the seatbelt and make sure it securely latches and is working correctly.
You can turn on the engine after you have done all the steps mentioned above. Carefully listen to the engine. Investigate any strange sounds immediately. Check that both the service brake and the parking brake are functioning properly. Make sure that the accelerator and the steering controls are working at optimum performance levels.