What Must Be Done Daily Before Using a Forklift? Inspection Checklist

Table of Contents:

1. Forklift Safety Checklist - Is It Necessary?
2. Main Points on a Forklift Safety Checklist
3. Daily Forklift Inspection Checklists
4. Additional Items Checklist
5. Why Do You Need a Forklift Maintenance Checklist?

Forklift trucks are one of the favorite warehouse operators' machines. They not only help in moving heavy pallets or goods but also aid in lifting them. Unsurprisingly, any operator should take great care of the machine's operation, maintenance, health and safety protocols, and many more aspects. All the above to prolong its life as much as possible. Today's article will review the most crucial safety elements every forklift operator should know and adhere to.  

Forklift Safety Checklist - Is It Necessary?

A forklift safety checklist is the first step to appropriately using your equipment. However, most importantly, it secures your health and safety. Therefore, it is advised that an operator follows the instructions to operate a forklift safely and prevent equipment damage.   

A forklift inspection checklist is also a necessity. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires an inspection with at least a daily frequency. The inspections should be conducted during every shift if the forklift truck is used non-stop. If you use your forklift less frequently, the inspection should happen before every use.

Such precautions were indicated by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). According to NIOSH, improper use of forklifts may result in injuries, such as concussions, fractures, or bruises. Except for inappropriate use, the above can also happen due to load hazards, insufficient maintenance, or misuse of attachments.   

Main Points on a Forklift Safety Checklist

The forklift safety checklist must ensure the machine is damage-free and fully operational. It should also prevent possible mishaps during the equipment operation time. Therefore, the checks will help with the following:  
- Safety of use
- Accident prevention
- Reduction of downtime due to an improper maintenance  
- Equipment extended life
- Identifying any other possible issues that need servicing  

Daily Forklift Inspection Checklists

Identifying all the areas that need checking during daily forklift inspections is a complex task. Luckily, you do not have to put the list together alone. We have prepared a checklist for you. It consists of three areas, visual, operational, and additional, which the operator should check during the day-to-day use of the machine. Simply print it off, and you are ready to start your checks!  

Visual Checklist  

1. Damages - check for any visual damages (dented parts, broken parts, missing parts, etc.).
2. Leaks - inspect for oil leaks, or any other leaks coming from the radiator or hydraulic system.
3. Tires/wheels - check tire pressure and inflation; look for holes, damages, and signs of substantial wear and tear.
4. Forks - check if the locking pins are secured and not damaged.
5. Wiring - ensure all cables, hoses, and chains are in the right place and not loose.
6. Battery - check if the battery is charged, appropriately connected and whether the cable is not damaged; check the position of the battery retainer.
7. Guards - check the condition and the position of the guards, the overhead load backrest, side rails, and gates. 
8. Safety devices - check whether all mechanical safety devices are in a proper condition (warning labels, name and/or date plate, fire extinguisher, seat belt, etc.).
9. Compartment - check the condition of the controls (pedals, steer tillers) and dash control panel in the operator compartment; check seat locks.

Operational Checklist  

1. Power check - power the forklift to ensure all lights work correctly; check if the power disconnect cuts power off entirely.
2. Safety devices - check all electrical safety devices (flashing lights, indicator lights, horn, entry bar, etc.).  
3. Steering wheel - ensure that the steering wheel works properly.
4. Brakes - check foot brake pedal, parking brake, braking distance, and plugging distance (at slower and accelerated speed).
5. Hydraulic controls - check hydraulic functions, and ensure they operate correctly; check for unusual noises.  
6. Attachments - check if the forklift attachments are in place (including removable parts); check if the attachments work up to standard; check for any unusual noises.   
7. Limit switches - check if all the limit switches (lift, tilt, travel limits, and safety reverse) work properly.   
8. Battery - ensure the battery is at least 75% charged before you use the forklift.  
9. Wire guidance - check if the wire guidance works properly.
10. End aisle test - ensure the forklift slows down and stops at the aisle end; ensure the alarm works   

Additional Items Checklist

1. Labels - ensure all markings, such as the nameplates and labels, are visible and easy to read.
2. Exhaust system - ensure there are no flames or sparks in the exhaust system.
3. Cleanliness - ensure the forklift is clean from oil, grease, or dirt.
4. Propane tank - ensure there is no rust or corrosion in the propane tank. 
5. Operator's manual - check whether the operator's manual is in place.  
6. Seatbelt - check if the seatbelt works properly.  
7. Capacity load plate - ensure the capacity load plate is well-fitted.   
8. Horn - check if the horn works properly. 
9. For gas-operated forklifts - ensure there is enough gas before you power up the gas-operated forklift.   

Why Do You Need a Forklift Maintenance Checklist?

If you want your forklift to be in good shape for a long time, and steer clear of any expensive repairs, make sure you conduct the maintenance checks. If you use your forklift daily, performing maintenance checks every 200 hours of operation is advisable. You should also service the hydraulics after every 600 hours of operation. It is also advisable to introduce monthly and quarterly maintenance forklift checklists. We have also prepared them for you below:  

Monthly Maintenance Tasks:

- Engine oil change
- Air filter cleaning 
- Lift mechanism and tilt cylinder inspection   
- Belt tension inspection
- Spark plugs inspection
- Idle speed and ignition time adjustment

Quarterly Maintenance Inspection Checklist:

- Pedals inspection
- Brakes inspection   
- Mast operation inspection   
- Hydraulic oil pump inspection   
- Radiator cleaning   
- Filters, hoses, and oil inspection   
- Fuel filter replacement  
- Hydraulic filter replacement   
- Draining the water separator    

Pre-operation forklift inspections and maintenance checks are crucial to the longevity of your machine. However, choosing a trusted and reputable manufacturer is even more essential. Skidsteers.com offers forklift attachments made from American steel and welded in the United States. All our attachments meet or exceed ANSI/OSHA standards and have a one-year warranty. If you have any questions regarding the attachments, our knowledgeable team is always happy to help.