Inspect a Forklift
OSHA and HRSDC report that more than 10,000 workplace injuries related to fork lifts occur every year. Driver error is the cause of many of these accidents. Lack of appropriate equipment check and maintenance causes numerous others. Forklift maintenance and operation is not just the reason for personal injuries, but also of damage to property. Forklifts could damage sprinklers, building structures and overhead pipes, and other machinery when wrongly operated. The following daily inspections must be done so as to reduce the chance of forklift accidents.
Prior to inspecting different fluid levels turn off the engine. Check these fluids: hydraulic oil, fuel, engine oil, brake fluid and coolant. The tires also have to be checked for indications of wear and tear. Check the air pressure in the tires. Check the forks' condition. The load backrest need to be attached securely. Do a visual inspection of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. After that perform an inspection of the mast chains, hydraulic hoses, cables and stops. Make certain that both the overhead and finger guards are firmly attached.
LP forklifts have propane tanks that need to be checked for indications of damage, rust or corrosion. Test the battery's electrolyte levels and charge. All belts must be checked for wear. Check to make sure the owner's manual is stored on-board the forklift in a storage compartment. Test the seat belt to make certain 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 noise of the engine to make sure there are no unusual sounds. If there are, investigate at once. Check the steering controls and the accelerator. The parking break and the service break should be working properly.
To guarantee proper functioning in both forward and reverse, the drive control and tilt control must be inspected. The functioning of the lowering control, the hoist and attachment control needs periodic inspection. Check the lights and horn. After that check the wipers, heater and defroster to make certain they are functioning well. Check each gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.