General Forklift Inspection Checklist

Visual Pre-Use Check

• General condition and cleanliness.

• Floor – clear of objects that could cause an incident.

• Overhead – no obstructions.

• Nearby objects to avoid as you drive away.

• Fire extinguisher – present and charged.

• Engine oil level, fuel level, radiator fluid level (liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), gas, and diesel forklifts).

• Propane equipment – fuel tank mounting system, fuel tank position pin, propane relief valves and hose condition.

• Battery – fully charged; no exposed wires; plug connections not loose, worn or dirty; vent caps not clogged; electrolyte levels in cells is adequate; secured in place by holddowns or brackets.

• Bolts, nuts, guards, chains, or hydraulic hose reels not damaged, missing or loose.

• Wheels and tires – check for wear, damage, and air pressure, if pneumatic tires.

• Forks – forks not bent or at different heights; no cracks present; positioning latches in good working condition; carriage teeth not broken, chipped or worn.

• Chain anchor pins – not worn, loose or bent.

• Fluid leaks – no damp spots or drips.

• Hoses – held securely; not loose, crimped, worn or rubbing.

• Grease or debris in the operator compartment.

• Seatbelt and/or operator restraint device (if equipped) – belts and restraints work properly; no visible wear or damage; anchors, buckles, etc. function properly.

• Seat locks – in position

• Overhead guard, or roll over protection structure (ROPS) if present – secure with no damaged areas.

• Other guards – all guards in place and in good condition.

Operational Pre-Use Check:

• Foot brake – pedal holds, unit stops smoothly.

• Parking brake – holds against slight acceleration.

• Deadman seat brake – holds when operator rises from seat.

• Clutch and gearshift – shifts smoothly with no jumping or jerking.

• Dash control panel – all lights and gauges are operational.

• Horn – working and loud enough to be heard in working environment;

• Back-up (reverse) alarm and other warning devices are operational.

• Lights – headlights and warning lights are operational.

• Steering – moves smoothly.

• Lift mechanism – operates smoothly (check by raising forks to maximum height then lowering forks completely).

• Tilt mechanism – moves smoothly, holds the load (check by tilting mast all the way forward and backward).

• Cylinders and hoses – not leaking after above checks.

• Listen for any unusual sounds or noises.