Before you start operating a forklift, you’re supposed to go through a protocol check on your forklift’s conditions first. For the most part, protocol checks are to ensure that the forklift is in perfect running condition. No one wants to operate a forklift knowing it may risk their lives.
Pre-operation inspection is important
Besides causing some serious workplace damage, there are possibilities of human injuries and fatalities that stems from detectable equipment failure. When an employee does not do a proper inspection and assess equipment before use, then they will be up for some workplace accidents. Those accidents can be avoided if they have done a thorough pre-operational inspection.
Many safety regulators, forklift manufacturers and companies often encourage companies to inspect their forklifts before the start of the operation. Unfortunately, many times these inspections were forgotten or missed. On some occasions, even when there were inspections done, it wasn’t done very thoroughly. They can be neglected and poorly documented.
It isn’t just for compliance purposes and for workplace safety. You and your company can be fined thousands of dollars if you fail to determine forklift safety before operation. You will not just lose money, but you will also lose the company’s reputation and property too. If it gets any worst, you may lose innocent lives too, which you do not want.
Come up with a pre-operation check on your forklift before you start the day’s work. It doesn’t hurt if you have a quick and thorough checkup before you start the day’s operation. A few minutes of checkup can help clear up and avoid many unnecessary mistakes.
What must you do for a forklift checkup?
According to the 20 CFR 1910.178, in layman’s terms, OSHA mentioned that forklifts must be inspected on a regular basis. You will have to inspect it on a daily basis. In some cases, you may have to inspect it even after shifts if your forklifts are operating around the clock regularly.
If your staff has discovered any problems, they must report them immediately. The problematic forklift will need to be removed from service immediately for safety purposes too. Though there may not be any mandates in the standard of inspections conducted, there are suggested best practices that are readily available.
What should a forklift operator inspect during a pre-operational checkup?
We have put together a quick list of areas for your staff to check before the start of the shift.
- Check the surrounding areas of the workplace. Make sure that the general condition and cleanliness of the workplace are not cluttered.
- Make sure that the floor is clear of objects and obstructions.
- Make sure there are no overhead obstructions.
- Avoid driving too close to nearby objects.
- Make sure there is a functional and updated fire extinguisher.
- Check on the forklift’s engine oil level, fuel level, and radiator fluid level.
- Check on the propane equipment
- Make sure that the batteries are fully charged and in working condition. Make sure there are no exposed wires, no loose plug connections, dirty or worn batteries, etc.
- Make sure there are no loose bolts, nuts, guards, chains, or hydraulic hose reels.
- Check if the tires are in working condition. Check if it is worn or damaged and if the air pressure is sufficient.
- Forks must be the right size and are not damaged in any way.
- Make sure that the seat locks are in working conditions
Make sure that the overhead guards or roll-over protection structures (ROPS) are secured and have no damaged areas. If there are other guards present, make sure they are in place and are in good condition too.
Bottom Line
Pre-operational checks on forklifts are important as you do not wish to get into any workplace accidents. If you need any workplace safety advice for your forklifts, feel free to reach out to us today.