Inspect a Forklift
OSHA and HRSDC report that over 10,000 workplace injuries related to fork lifts occur each year. Driver error is the cause of many of these mishaps. Lack of proper equipment inspection and maintenance results in numerous others. Operation and maintenance of a forklift is not only the reason for personal injuries, but also of damage to property. Forklifts could damage sprinklers, building structures and overhead pipes, and other equipment when utilized incorrectly. The following day by day check ups should be performed so as to lessen the chance of forklift mishaps.
Turn the engine off before inspecting various fluid levels: fuel, engine oil, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. The tires must be inspected for signs of wear and tear. Check the air pressure in the tires. Check the forks' condition. The load backrest should be attached tightly. Do a visual check of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. Next perform an inspection of the mast chains, hydraulic hoses, cables and stops. Make certain that both the finger and overhead guards are securely attached.
LP forklifts have propane tanks that need to be checked for signs of rust, corrosion or damage. Test the battery's electrolyte levels and charge. All belts must be inspected for wear. Check to make certain the owner's manual is kept on-board the forklift inside a storage compartment. Check the seat belt to make certain the latches are secure. Check the hood latch to make certain that it is functioning 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 service brake and the parking break should be properly functioning.
To guarantee proper functioning in both reverse and forward, the tilt control and drive control should be checked. The functioning of the lowering control, the hoist and attachment control requires periodic checking. Check the horn and lights. After that check the heater, defroster and wipers to make certain they are functioning well. Check each and every gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.