Forklift Hazard Checklist

Forklift safety checks are an essential part of maintaining a safe workplace. Forklifts are powerful machines, and if they are not in optimal condition, accidents can occur in the workplace. A hazard checklist can make everyday work with these machines much easier. It is important that employers are informed about the proper forklift inspection procedures so that they can ensure the safety of their employees. Below we will provide detailed information on how to properly perform regular forklift safety checks, what components should be inspected and what regulations you should follow when inspecting these vehicles.

 

Forklifts in industry 

Forklifts are a common sight in warehouses and manufacturing facilities around the world and an integral part of industry. They are necessary for the efficient operation of warehouses, production facilities, retail and wholesale and much more. But while forklifts are key tools for any business that needs to move heavy pallets quickly and safely, they must also be used with caution.

It is extremely important that all businesses take the necessary steps to ensure that their forklift safety checks are carried out regularly. That means you have trained operator who knows how to use the machine safely and is aware of all potential hazards in the work environment. Of course, this does not mean that security measures are taken only in exceptional weather conditions, but not related to time and season.

It is also important to check maintenance issues such as brakes, steering systems and other components for signs of wear or damage that could lead to an accident. A properly maintained machine can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all employees when using it.

Safety at work and OSHA-EU

According to the European Union, every year around 5,500 people die in workplace accidents in the EU, and around a third of these deaths are related to transport. Transportation-related workplace fatalities often involve forklifts and other heavy machinery. To reduce the risk of such accidents and prevent further tragedies, it is important for employers to ensure that their equipment undergoes regular safety checks.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an average of 100 workers in America die each year due to forklift accidents. In addition, as many as 20,000 other workers suffer serious injuries related to the use of forklifts. These statistics show that it is essential for employers to take preventive measures to ensure the safety of their workers on the job.

While in Serbia, in the rulebook on safety at work loading and unloading with forklifts, mandatory safety checks of the machine are not regulated by law, in EU countries and around the world it is. It is the only one in Serbia regulated by law regular service and technical inspection as well as periodic inspection after repair of the defect ("Official Gazette of the SFRY", no. 17/66, Article 60). But everyone is well aware of the old proverb that says: prevention is better than cure!

The most effective way employers can reduce the risk of forklift accidents is to carry out regular safety checks. A thorough inspection should include checking key components such as brakes, steering wheels, tires and wearing helmets.

 

The need for examinations

When it comes to safe work at the workplace, an adequate safety check of the forklift is necessary. Without regular inspections and maintenance, a business risks the safety of its staff, assets, finances and reputation. Forklift safety checks are a key measure in preventing accidents and deaths which may result from the use of this powerful machine.

Protecting a company's reputation, finances, property, and lives from this type of failure and related mishaps usually requires only one measure - thorough inspections before each shift. A comprehensive inspection will identify any defects or missing safety features that need to be addressed immediately to prevent future damage.

The inspection process should include a complete visual assessment of the machine as well as all its individual components that work together to ensure safe operation. This includes testing the brakes, making sure moving parts are properly lubricated, checking for tire wear and checking for fluid leaks that could be dangerous under certain conditions. In addition, all components such as headlights, taillights, horns or bells should be tested to ensure they are in working order when required.

Whether you own absolutely new forklift or is already in their later years, safety checks are extremely important!

 

Daily inspection of the forklift

For operators who use their forklifts frequently or in hazardous environments such as construction sites or warehouses, it is recommended that the forklifts are thoroughly inspected before each shift and after any maintenance or repair work on them.

A daily forklift inspection is the best way to ensure safety in the workplace. This includes checking for visible damage, tire inflation, fluid levels, horn operation, steering mechanism operation and a host of other potential problems. It also includes checking the battery connections and testing the brakes while moving or driving the forklift at low speed. In addition, it is important to ensure that all employees operating the forklift are properly trained on how to operate it safely. Regular inspections of your fleet can help identify issues before they become major problems – ensuring employee safety and employers peace of mind!

 

First step - visual inspection

The first step during the pre-use visual inspection is to inspect all external parts for corrosion, wear and damage. This includes checking fluid levels, tires, brakes and hydraulic lines for leaks or breaks. In addition, all lights must be checked to ensure they function properly and all mirrors must be adjusted so that the operator has an unobstructed view from the driving position.

• General condition of the forklift
• The cleanliness of the tires and the forklift itself
• Wheels and tires - check for wear, damage and tire pressure
• Fire extinguisher – is it present and charged
• Check for fluid leaks
• Fluid check - engine oil level, fuel level, coolant level
• Battery check - fully charged, the electrolyte level in the cells is adequate
• Checking the villas – the forks are not bent or at different heights, there are no cracks present
• Checking the environment in which it works

 

Second step - operational check before use

For starters, operators should inspect the forklift's brakes to make sure they are working properly and can stop when needed. In addition, they should check all the gauges on the dashboard to make sure everything is within normal parameters, as well as inspect all the lights and turn signals for any possible malfunctions or burnouts. All tires must also be checked - for correct pressure levels.

Finally, it is important to examine all hydraulic hoses and lines that may require replacement if they have become worn or damaged over time.

• Brake/parking brake/seat brake – does the unit stop smoothly, does it stay in place during gentle movement, does the seat move when the driver stands up
• Clutch and gearbox - does it change gears smoothly
• Instrument panel - does it show the optimum
• Lights - whether the headlights and warning lights are working
• Smooth steering
• Lifting mechanism - raising to the maximum and lowering to the minimum
• Siren check
• Guts – no leaks after the above checks

Any defect or failure observed during these inspections must be reported immediately so that the necessary repairs can be carried out immediately.

Download and print your copy of the Forklift Checklist and provide your workers with a safe work environment.