Daily forklift inspection: checklist

Posted by Hyundai
17 December 2019

Before starting the forklift

To guarantee safety and prolong the economic lifespan of a forklift, daily inspection is paramount. Most of these pre-operational and operational checks will only take a few minutes.

In order to prevent accidents it’s important the operator identifies damage before starting the forklift. Especially when one forklift may be used by multiple operators, it’s important operators familiarize themselves with the equipment every time they use it.

 

Fast distribution and reliable aftersales services

 

Visual checks

  • Tyres (check for wear, splitting and pressures)
  • Condition of the lights and lenses
  • Condition of the gauges
  • Obvious signs of damage to the body and overhead guards
  • Obvious signs of damage to the mast, lifting assembly and attachments
  • Forklift tyres and backrest for cracks and fractures
  • Hydraulic hose, unions, cylinders for leads or damage
  • Underneath the forklifts for fuel or oil leaks

 

Physical checks

  • LPG bottle for leaks and security
  • Battery connections
  • Security of the fittings of attachments
  • Thickness and condition of the tyres

 

Check of liquid levels

  • Hydraulic fluid
  • Brake fluid
  • Engine oil coolant
  • Battery
  • Fuel

 

Some important points you need to take extra care with are:

  • Checking the data plate for capacity (safe working load)
  • Load center
  • Mast full height (MFH)

After starting the forklift

Having completed the initial check (before starting the forklift) the operator can now go through a few safety tests.

Ensure you check the:

  • Handbrake
  • Transmission – forward and reverse positive movement
  • Brakes and inching pedal
  • Full range of steering movement
  • Lift control, tilt control and side shift if fitted
  • Additional devices fitted
  • Horn, flashing lights, headlamps, indicators, reversing lights and beeper
  • Instruments are working correctly

 

Going through this inspection routine daily will not only increase safety, it will have an impact on maintenance and downtime. Any problem that may occur with the vehicle will be identified by the operator before it becomes a major issue of concern.

Want to learn more?

Apart from these general checks, operators should also regularly check the forks, heels, hooks, tips of the forklift. Read more here.