Forklift Truck Operator Pre-Use Checks

Forklifts are extremely useful workplace vehicles, as long as they are used safely and appropriately by operators who are appropriately trained and competent to use them.

The following forklift safety tips will help you and those you work with stay safe around forklifts.

Check Items

Visual Checks

1 General: Good condition with no damage, excessive dirt or rust. Any defects previously noted repaired.

2 Forks: Correctly positioned, not damaged, cracked, bent or worn. Anchor pins secure and not worn, loose or bent.

3 Carriage Plate: No damage or distortion, sitting square to the mast and lubricated. End stop bolts engaged and secure.

4 Mast: No damage, distortion or cracks. No undue wear, scoring, dirt or foreign bodies in channels. End stops secure. Rollers, no uneven

wear or incorrect tracking. Slides intact and secure.

5 Back Rest Extension / Load Guard: In good condition, secure with no distortion or cracks.

6 Lift Chains: Not damaged worn or stretched, no broken links or rust. All pins in place.

7 Tyres: No damage, excessive dirt or wear, rust, cracks, splits or separation of tyres and rims. Pneumatic tyres correct air pressure.

8 Wheels: Undamaged and free from obstruction and debris. All nuts secure and in place.

9 Overhead Guard / Roll Over Protection Frame: Secure, undamaged with no loose items.

10 Energy Source:

• Gas or Diesel: Engine oil, fuel and radiator water level correct. Gas bottle secured, no rust, corrosion or damaged pipes, hoses or seals.

• Electric: Electrolyte level, battery plug and connections correct. Power cable intact, connected and secure. No exposed wires, battery

brackets secure and battery adequately charged.

11 Hydraulics: No damage or fluid leaks, no splits in hoses, no leaks around fittings.

12 Identification / Rating Plate: Intact, clean and legible.

13 Operator’s Compartment: Clean with no loose items.

14 Access: Steps and grab handles in good condition and clean.

15 Lights, Windscreen and Mirrors (if fitted): Clean and undamaged.

16 Fire Extinguisher (if fitted): Secure and charged

Operational Checks

17 Seat: Good condition, secure and adjusted correctly.

18 Safety Belt: Accessible, in good condition and working correctly.

19 Ignition & Electrical System: Working correctly. All gauges and instruments visible and working.

20 Reversing Alarm and Horn: Working correctly and audible.

21 Warning Lights & Lights (if fitted): Working correctly.

22 Hydraulic Controls: Working smoothly and correctly.

23 Brakes (Foot & Parking): Working correctly.

24 Clutch & Gearshift: Working smoothly and correctly.

25 Steering: Working correctly with no excessive play.

26 Exhaust: No excessive smoke, sparks or flame