10 important things to inspect before using a Forklift

Forklifts in any warehouse or industrial setting see daily use, but this does not mean that they are always continually ready for action.

Each time you are going to use a forklift you should carry out your own inspection of the vehicle. Doing checks can help to identify any faults with the forklift and helps to keep all vehicles in the best condition. If you feel a forklift is not fit to be used you should inform your supervisor and locate an alternative forklift for your tasks if it cannot be fixed.

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We have collected 10 of the most important things to inspect and consider before using a forklift in your working environment.

10 Checks Before Using a Forklift

1 – Check Your Fuel and Oil Levels

This can apply to a variety of things depending on what type of forklift you are using. If you have a fuel-based vehicle you should check fuel and oil levels, but you should check the charge on an electric vehicle.

2 – Check Your Lights

Just as with any vehicle, lights of of vital importance. On a forklift they not only help to light your way in dark areas, but they can also signal as a warning for people operating in your vicinity.

3 – Test Your Horn

Similarly, your horn is important for when you want to alert people to your presence. This reduces the amount of accidents involving pedestrians but also warns other vehicles which might be nearby.

4 – Check Your Wheels

The wheels of your forklift influence the way it drives, so you need to make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct level and that your wheels are in good condition.

5 – Test The Steering

You’re going to be using a forklift for a variety or precise tasks and this means the steering has to be in top condition. Check everything is right with the steering and alignment before operation.

6 – Check The Forks

As an important part of the forklift, you should always inspect the forks to ensure they are in working condition and that they aren’t bent in a way which will catch the ground.

7 – Check The Brakes

Stopping in an emergency can mean the difference between safety and catastrophic injury. Make sure the brakes are in the ultimate working condition before using a forklift.

8 – Adjust The Seat And Mirrors

It’s unlikely that two people will have the mirrors and seat in the same position. Adjust these things to your suitability and comfort before attempting to operate a forklift.

9 – Wear Appropriate Safety Clothing

There are some things which are essential for safely operating a forklift. Ensure that once the forklift is ready, that you are too, with high visibility jacket, sturdy footwear and a hard hat.

10 – Check The Capacity Limit

Different forklifts have different load limits and you need to be aware of the limits so that you select the right vehicle for the task you need to perform.

At Euro 1 Training we provide comprehensive training for a variety of forklifts covering everything, from preparing a forklift for operation, to general safety procedures.

Contact us today and we’ll help you find the right forklift training course in Doncaster for your requirements.