Inspect a Forklift
HRSDC and OSHA report that over 10,000 workplace injuries connected to fork lifts occur every year. Operator error is the cause of many of these accidents. Lack of appropriate equipment maintenance and check results in many others. Forklift maintenance and operation is not just the reason for personal injuries, but also of property damage. Forklifts could damage overhead pipes, sprinklers and building structures, and other machines when improperly operated. The following daily check ups must be performed so as to lessen the possibility of forklift accidents.
Turn off the engine before checking different fluid levels: fuel, engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and hydraulic oil. The tires should be checked for indications of wear and tear. Check the air pressure in the tires. Check the forks' condition. The load backrest must be securely attached. Do a visual inspection of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. After that carry out an inspection of the mast chains, hydraulic hoses, stops and cables. Ensure that both the overhead and finger guards are attached firmly.
LP forklifts have propane tanks that have to be inspected for signs of corrosion, damage or rust. Test the battery's charge and electrolyte levels. All belts must be checked for wear. Check to make certain the owner's instruction manual is stored on-board the forklift in a storage compartment. Test the seat belt to make sure the latches are secure. Test the hood latch to make certain that it is working as it should.
Start the forklift and listen to the engine noise to make certain there are no unusual sounds. If there are, investigate immediately. Check the accelerator and the steering controls. The service brake and the parking break should be properly functioning.
The tilt control and drive control should be checked to guarantee proper functioning in both forward and reverse. Check the functioning of the lowering control and hoist, and the attachment control. Test the horn and lights. After that check the heater, defroster and wipers to make sure they are functioning well. Check every gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.