For the use of forklifts, there are a few safety and health rules governing their use. Forklifts are large industrial machinery that could be dangerous and have to be handled with safety in mind. The rules and regulations state that the driver should conduct daily checks on the forklift and more thorough inspections on a weekly basis and on a monthly basis. The following checks have to be done on the lift truck:
Lift Truck Brakes - brakes on forklifts are key features which should be double and triple checked. A brake check is carried out with various pedal heights and pressures to determine the sensitivity of the brakes. The brake lights should be inspected at the same time.
The Tires - the tires are also vital to the safe performance of the truck and to the braking system. All the tires must be properly checked to make sure they are inflated to the right pressure and that there are no punctures in the tires.
Controller - In order to determine whether the system is in good working condition, the forklift controller system needs to be checked by operating the forks and the release mechanism. Any indication of issues must be reported and tended to instantly. The lift truck should not be utilized until the controller system has been repaired.
Steering Wheel - In order to make sure that the turning of the wheel is correct, the operator must inspect the lift truck steering wheel. Forklift safety depends upon the steering wheel responding well and functioning accurately. There are a variety of checks which could be done to determine steering wheel performance.
Engine Oil - the engine oil needs to be checked by removing the dip stick from the lift truck engine. The dipstick would show the level of the oil and the colour of the oil. The oil must be refilled if the level is very low. If the colour is off, there could be contamination occurring.
Fire Extinguisher - forklifts are required by law to carry a fire extinguisher. This fire extinguisher would have to be checked to ensure it will work properly in the event of a fire. Different types of fire extinguisher must be checked in specific ways. Like for example, a dry chemical extinguisher needs to be shaken.