156 Forklift Safety: Basic

Pre-Use Inspection

If someone else has used the forklift during a shift, it's a good idea to check it for defects again.

Even if you operate a forklift safely, a defect can cause or contribute to a serious accident. Any defects that would affect safety must be corrected before the forklift is returned to service.

Look at the following items for things to look for during an inspection:

• Is the horn working? Sound the horn at intersections and wherever vision is obstructed.
• Are there hydraulic leaks in the mast or elsewhere? These could cause slipping hazards or lead to hydraulic failure.
• Are fuel connections tight and battery terminals covered? Dropping a piece of metal across battery terminals can cause an explosion.

Forklift Training: OSHA Pre-Shift Inspection
• Is there a lot of lint, grease, oil or other material on the forklift that could catch on fire?
• Do sparks or flames come out from the exhaust system?
• Does the engine show signs of overheating?
• Are tires at proper pressure and free of damage? A tire with low pressure or a tire failure can cause a forklift to tip or fall when a load is high.
• Do all controls such as lift, lower, and tilt work smoothly? Are they labeled?
• Is there any deformation or cracks in the forks, mast, overhead guard, or backrest?
• Are lights operating if used at night or in dark locations?
• Is steering responsive? A lot of play or hard steering will reduce your control.
• Do brakes stop smoothly and reliably? Sudden stops can cause tipping.
• Does the parking brake hold the forklift on an incline?
• Are seat belts (if equipped) working and accessible?
• Is the load capacity plate readable?

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.