Inspect a Forklift
HRSDC and OSHA report that more than 10,000 workplace injuries related to fork lifts happen every year. Driver error is the reason for many of these mishaps. Lack of appropriate equipment inspection 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 machines when incorrectly operated. The following day by day check ups should be carried out so as to lessen the chance of forklift mishaps.
Turn off the engine before checking various fluid levels: engine oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid and hydraulic oil. The tires must be checked for indications of wear and tear. Check the air pressure in the tires. Check the forks' condition. The load backrest must be firmly attached. Do a visual check of the top-clip retaining heel and pin. Next perform an inspection of the mast chains, hydraulic hoses, stops and cables. Make sure that both the overhead and finger guards are firmly attached.
LP forklifts have propane tanks that need to be checked for signs of rust, corrosion or damage. Test the battery's charge and electrolyte levels. All belts should be checked for wear. Check to make sure the owner's manual is kept on-board the forklift inside a storage compartment. Check the seat belt to make sure the latches are secure. Check the hood latch to ensure it is working 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 accelerator and the steering controls. The parking break and the service break should be properly working.
To ensure proper functioning in both forward and reverse, the drive control and tilt control must be checked. The functioning of the lowering control, the hoist and attachment control needs periodic checking. Test the lights and horn. After that check the wipers, heater and defroster to make sure they are working well. Inspect each gauge to find out that it is reading within functional limits.