Inspect a Forklift
Workplace injuries related to forklift usage within North America average roughly over 10,000 each year, based on the statistics from the HRSDC and OSHA. Several injuries are caused by the lack of proper equipment inspection and maintenance of the machine. Other injuries are because of operator error.
Injuries are not the only problems which are related to the maintenance and operation of lift trucks. One more serious issue is damage to property. Lift truck mishaps can cause damage to sprinklers, overhead pipes, and other equipment and building walls. By completing thorough inspections on a daily basis, you can help lessen forklift injuries.
When beginning an inspection, turn the engine off. Check the levels of the engine oil, fuel, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. Visually inspect the machine's tires looking for indications of wear, general condition and appropriate air pressure. Visually check the forks on the front of the machine too. Confirm the condition of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. Make certain that the backrest is securely attached. Confirm that both the finger guard and overhead are attached. Visually inspect the stops and cables, the mast chains and the hydraulic hoses too.
On LP or liquid propane forklifts, check the propane tank. Look for any signs of corrosion, damage or rust. Be sure that the battery has enough electrolyte levels and that is adequately charged. Visually check all belts. Check to confirm the location of the owner's handbook and make sure it is situated in the designated on-board storage compartment. Confirm the hood latch and make sure that it is functioning as it is supposed to. Inspect the seatbelt and make sure it securely latches and is working correctly.
You could turn the engine on after you have done all the steps mentioned above. Listen carefully to the engine. Investigate any strange sounds right away. Check that both the service brake and the parking brake are working correctly. Confirm that the steering controls and the accelerator are operating at optimum performance levels.