Daily Forklift Safety Checks: What to Inspect Before Every Shift

While every forklift is different, there are several key areas that should be inspected before operating the truck.

• Tyres – Check all tyres for excessive wear, cuts, flat spots, or damage. Worn tyres can reduce traction, affect stability, and make the forklift more difficult to control, particularly when carrying heavy loads.
• Forks – Inspect the forks for signs of cracks, bending, excessive wear, or other damage. Damaged forks can compromise the safe handling of loads and should never be used until they have been properly repaired or replaced.
• Mast and Lift Chains – Check the mast for visible damage and ensure the lift chains appear correctly tensioned and well lubricated. Any signs of excessive wear, corrosion, or damage should be reported immediately.
• Hydraulic System – Look for hydraulic oil leaks around hoses, cylinders, and fittings. Test the lifting and lowering functions to ensure the mast operates smoothly without unusual noises or hesitation.
• Steering and Brakes – Before starting work, check that the steering responds correctly and that the brakes operate effectively. Any unusual behaviour should be investigated before the forklift is put into service.
• Warning Lights and Controls – Once the forklift is started, ensure all warning lights function correctly and that no fault indicators remain illuminated. Test the controls to confirm they respond smoothly and operate as expected.
• Horn, Lights and Safety Equipment – Check that the horn, lights, reversing alarm, beacon, mirrors, and seatbelt are all in good working order. These features play an important role in keeping both operators and pedestrians safe.
• Fluid Levels – Depending on the type of forklift, inspect engine oil, coolant, hydraulic oil, and fuel levels. Electric forklifts should also have their battery charge checked before use to ensure sufficient power for the working shift.