Inspect a Forklift
There are over 10,000 workplace injuries related to forklifts occur each year, according to OSHA and HRSDC reports. A lot of these mishaps are caused by driver error. Lack of appropriate equipment inspection and maintenance results in many others. Maintenance and operation of a forklift is not only the reason for personal injuries, but also of damage to property. Forklifts could damage sprinklers, building structures and overhead pipes, and other machines when operated wrongly. The following daily inspections should be carried out so as to reduce the likelihood of forklift mishaps.
Turn the engine off prior to checking various fluid levels: fuel, engine oil, brake fluid, hydraulic oil and coolant. The tires should be checked for indications of wear and tear. Check the tire air pressure. Check the forks' condition. The load backrest must be tightly attached. Do a visual inspection of the top-clip retaining heel and pin. After that perform an inspection of the hydraulic hoses, mast chains, stops and cables. Ensure that the overhead and finger guards are firmly attached.
LP forklifts have propane tanks that need to be inspected for signs of corrosion, damage or rust. Test the battery's charge and electrolyte levels. All belts should be inspected for wear. Check to make sure the owner's guidebook is kept on-board the forklift inside a storage compartment. Check the seat belt to make certain the latches are secure. Check the hood latch to ensure it is functioning as it should.
To make certain there are no unusual engine sounds, start the engine up and listen for any irregularities. If there are, investigate promptly. Test the accelerator and the steering controls. The service brake and the parking break should be properly functioning.
The tilt control and drive control should be checked to ensure proper functioning in both forward and reverse. Check the functioning of the hoist and lowering control, and the attachment control. Check the horn and lights. After that check the heater, defroster and wipers to make certain they are functioning well. Check each and every gauge to ascertain that it is reading within functional limits.