Inspect a Forklift
There are over 10,000 workplace injuries related to forklifts happen each year, based on OSHA and HRSDC reports. Many of these mishaps are caused by driver error. Lack of proper equipment inspection and maintenance results in many others. Forklift operation and maintenance is not only the reason for personal injuries, but also of damage to property. Forklifts can damage sprinklers, building structures and overhead pipes, and other machinery when incorrectly utilized. The following daily check ups must be done in order to reduce the possibility of forklift mishaps.
Turn off the engine prior to inspecting various fluid levels: engine oil, fuel, hydraulic oil, coolant and brake fluid. 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 firmly. Do a visual check of the top-clip retaining heel and pin. After that perform an inspection of the mast chains, hydraulic hoses, stops and cables. Make sure that both the finger and overhead guards are attached securely.
The LP fueled forklift has propane tanks that have to be checked for damage, rust or corrosion. The battery's electrolyte levels and charge need to be tested every so often. Seat belts have to be checked for wear and tear. Check to make sure the owner's guidebook is kept on-board the forklift inside a storage compartment. Check the seat belt to make certain the latches are secure. Test the hood latch to ensure it is functioning as it should.
To make certain there are no unusual engine sounds, start the engine up and listen for any irregularities. If there are, investigate at once. Test the steering controls and the accelerator. The service brake and the parking break must be working correctly.
To ensure proper functioning in both forward and reverse, the tilt control and drive control should be inspected. The functioning of the lowering control, the hoist and attachment control requires periodic checking. Check the lights and horn. Afterward check the defroster, wipers and heater to make sure they are working well. Check every gauge to find out that it is reading within functional limits.