Have you ever wondered how to make it safer for operating forklifts in dry and wet conditions? Conditions can be dangerous when oil, water, and spills aren't seen. Tip overs can also be an issue when traveling over gravel and uneven ground. In this article, we suggest two types of the forklift inspection checklist.
The 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7) OSHA standard states mandatory forklift inspections, but there are no rules in the standard specific to how to properly inspect. A Dry and wet forklift inspection checklist is required daily before or after each work shift.
Forklift Inspection Checklist
Forklift inspection checklist can prevent accidents related to wear and tear. The equipment takes a toll on daily workplace operations and repetitive routines in companies. With safety measures, you can ensure a healthy and safe workplace when employees are operating. Below is an infographic with the slight differences between dry and wet forklift inspections.
Dry Forklift Inspection
- Summer Tires
- Horn
- Gauges
- Lighting
- Forks
- Fire Extinguisher
- Battery
- Grease Forklift Chain
- Wheel Chocks
- Lock-outs
- Cracks
- Misalignment
- Test Brakes
Wet Forklift Inspection
- Winter Tires / Tire Chains
- Horn
- Gauges
- Waterproof Lighting
- Forks
- Battery and Starter Test
- Wheel Chocks
- Lock-outs
- Forklift Chain
- Rust and Corrosion
- Cracks
- Misalignment
- Avoid Cold Starts
- Avoid Short Operation in the Winter
- Forklift Cab Cover
- Test Brakes
Forklift Inspection Requirements
Proper forklift inspection requirements require a visual inspection, an operating inspection, and documenting all inspections. OSHA estimates that each year forklifts account for approximately 100,000 industrial injuries.
Visual Inspection
A visual inspection allows you to identify damaged forklifts, for example, any: pressure marks, dents, cracks, chips or normal wear and tear beyond safety limit.
Operating Inspection
Once a visual inspection is completed, operators should turn the engine on and do an operating inspection testing controls work properly. Evaluate the accelerator linkage, inch control if equipped, brakes, and steering. Is the steering too hard to turn or too loose.
It is just as important to test controls, tilt, forward, backward, hoist and lowering control. Check on the horn, lights, and back-up alarm.
Document Inspection
Follow through with the dry and wet forklift inspections checklist daily, it is essential to perform proper document inspections. If an operator is unaware of a safety condition that would require a forklift to be put out of service, because consequences could be fatal. Proper forklift safety training can ensure operators know what to look for when conducting a forklift inspection.
Forklift Winter Safety Hazards
During winter operators and employers come across difficult challenges.
5 Forklift Winter Hazards To Look Out For:
- Snow along with ice conditions.
- Wet surfaces cause slippery conditions.
- Extreme cold weather conditions.
- Visual visibility well operating a forklift.
- Daily check up for forklift maintenance and top off fluids.
When always storing a forklift be sure to store in a dry place indoors. Always use the proper oils and lubricants that are durable for maximum freezing points. Using fuel additives to diesel forklift fuel systems. Additives preseerve gas for the future when storing and prevent freezing.
Operator and Equipment Protection
Operator ProtectionDressed appropriately for winter. Equip operator protection like outdoor gear for cold conditions. Operators must wear warm layers of clothing a hat and gloves.
Equipment ProtectionPneumatic tires on chains to prevent chances of slippery conditions.
Proper MaintenanceForklifts must be maintained properly at all times serviced once a month and winter.
Interested in becoming a forklift train the trainer or just furthering your career we provide instructor courses in your area. Check out our other available forklift train the trainer courses we offer for the crane and aerial lift industry. AP Safety Training has an all in one CAL OSHA training safety management program. Contact us at (888) 501-1355 toll-free for any questions and prices we are locally located in CA.
