Inspect a Forklift
There are more than 10,000 workplace injuries related to forklifts happen every year, according to OSHA and HRSDC reports. Many of these mishaps are caused by driver error. Lack of appropriate equipment maintenance and inspection results in numerous others. Forklift operation and maintenance is not only the cause of personal injuries, but also of damage to property. Forklifts can damage overhead pipes, sprinklers and building structures, and other machines when operated incorrectly. The following daily check ups should be done in order to reduce the possibility of forklift mishaps.
Turn the engine off before checking various fluid levels: fuel, engine oil, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. The tires must be inspected for indications of wear and tear. Check the air pressure in the tires. Check the condition of the forks. The load backrest should be tightly attached. Do a visual check of the top-clip retaining pin and heel. After that perform an inspection of the hydraulic hoses, mast chains, cables and stops. Ensure that both the overhead and finger guards are firmly attached.
LP forklifts have propane tanks that need to be checked for indications of damage, rust or corrosion. Test the battery's electrolyte levels and charge. All belts should be checked for wear. Check to make certain the owner's instruction manual is stored on-board the forklift in a storage compartment. Check the seat belt to make sure the latches are secure. Check 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 at once. Test the steering controls and the accelerator. The service brake and the parking break should be working properly.
The drive control and tilt control must be checked to guarantee proper functioning in both forward and reverse. Check the functioning of the lowering control and hoist, and the attachment control. Check the lights and horn. After that check the wipers, heater and defroster to make certain they are working well. Check every gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.