Inspect a Forklift
OSHA and HRSDC report that more than 10,000 workplace injuries related to fork lifts take place every year. Driver error is the reason for many of these mishaps. Lack of appropriate equipment maintenance and check causes many others. Forklift operation and maintenance is not just the cause of personal injuries, but also of damage to property. Forklifts can damage overhead pipes, sprinklers and building structures, and other machines when used improperly. The following daily check ups should be done in order to reduce the likelihood of forklift mishaps.
Turn the engine off before checking various fluid levels: fuel, engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and hydraulic oil. The tires must be checked for indications of wear and tear. Check the tire air pressure. Check the condition of the forks. The load backrest need to be tightly attached. Do a visual inspection of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. Then perform an inspection of the hydraulic hoses, mast chains, stops and cables. Make certain that both the overhead and finger guards are securely attached.
The LP powered forklift has propane tanks that have to be inspected for rust, corrosion or damage. The battery's electrolyte levels and charge need to be tested periodically. Seat belts have to be checked for wear and tear. Check to make certain the owner's handbook is kept on-board the forklift inside a storage compartment. Test the seat belt to make sure the latches are secure. Test the hood latch to make sure that it is functioning as it should.
To make sure there are no unusual engine sounds, start the engine up and listen for any irregularities. If there are, investigate promptly. Check the accelerator and the steering controls. The parking break and the service break should be functioning properly.
The tilt control and drive control should be checked to ensure proper functioning in both reverse and forward. Test the functioning of the lowering control and hoist, and the attachment control. Test the lights and horn. Afterward check the heater, defroster and wipers to make sure they are working smoothly. Check each gauge to find out that it is reading within functional limits.