For the use of forklifts, there are several safety and health rules governing their use. Forklifts are large industrial machinery which could be dangerous and have to be handled with safety in mind. The rules and regulations state that the operator has to perform daily inspections on the forklift and more thorough checks each and every week and on a monthly basis. The following inspections should be performed on the lift truck:
Lift Truck Brakes - the brakes are a really vital part of the lift truck machinery and therefore they must be double and tripled checked. A brake check is performed with various pressures and pedal heights to determine the sensitivity of the brakes. The brake lights should be inspected at the same time.
The Tires - forklift tires are also important for the safe functioning of the lift truck and to the braking system. All the tires must be properly inspected to ensure they are inflated to the proper pressure and that there are no punctures in the tires.
Controller - the lift truck controller system is checked by operating the forks and the release to determine that the system is in good working order. Any indication of problems must be reported and tended to instantly. The forklift should not be used until the controller system has been repaired.
Steering Wheel - the operator must check the forklift steering wheel to make sure the turning of the wheel is right. Lift truck safety depends upon the steering wheel working accurately and responding well. There are various types of checks which could be done to determine steering wheel performance.
Engine Oil - the engine oil needs to be inspected by removing the dip stick from the lift truck engine. The dipstick will show both the oil color and the oil level. The oil should be refilled if the level is too low. If the colour is off, there might be contamination happening.
Fire Extinguisher - forklifts are required by law to carry a fire extinguisher. This fire extinguisher will have to be tested to ensure it will function correctly in the event of a fire. Various types of fire extinguisher should be inspected in certain ways. Like for instance, a dry chemical extinguisher needs to be shaken.