Inspect a Forklift
HRSDC and OSHA report that more than 10,000 workplace injuries related to fork lifts occur every year. Operator error is the cause of many of these mishaps. Lack of appropriate equipment inspection and maintenance causes numerous others. Maintenance and operation of a forklift is not just the cause of personal injuries, but also of property damage. Forklifts can damage sprinklers, building structures and overhead pipes, and other machinery when incorrectly utilized. The following daily inspections must be carried out in order to reduce the possibility of forklift accidents.
Turn off the engine before inspecting various fluid levels: engine oil, fuel, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. The tires must be checked for signs of wear and tear. Check the tire air pressure. Check the condition of the forks. The load backrest have to be attached securely. Do a visual check of the top-clip retaining heel and pin. After that carry out an inspection of the mast chains, hydraulic hoses, cables and stops. Ensure that the overhead and finger guards are attached securely.
The LP powered forklift has propane tanks that need to be inspected for damage, rust or corrosion. The battery's charge and electrolyte levels have to be tested every so often. Seat belts have to be inspected for wear and tear. Check to make sure the owner's handbook is stored on-board the forklift in a storage compartment. Check the seat belt to make certain 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 sure there are no unusual sounds. If there are, investigate immediately. Test the steering controls and the accelerator. The parking break and the service break should be functioning properly.
The tilt control and drive control must be checked to ensure proper functioning in both reverse and forward. Test the functioning of the hoist and lowering control, and the attachment control. Test the horn and lights. Afterward check the defroster, wipers and heater to make sure they are working well. Check each gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.