There are healthy and safety rules governing the utilization of lift trucks. Any big machine, like a forklift, is potentially dangerous and must be operated safely. The rules and regulations state that the driver must carry out daily checks on the lift truck and more thorough checks on a weekly basis and on a monthly basis. The following inspections have to be done on the lift truck:
Lift Truck Brakes - brakes on forklifts are key features which must 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 must be checked at the same time.
The Tires - lift truck tires are also important for the safe functioning of the lift truck and to the braking system. All the tires should be checked properly to make certain they are inflated to the right 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 sign of problems should immediately reported and tended to. The lift truck should not be utilized until the controller system has been fixed.
Steering Wheel - the driver must inspect the lift truck steering wheel to make sure the turning of the wheel is correct. Forklift safety depends on the steering wheel functioning accurately and responding well. There are a variety of inspections which can be carried out to determine steering wheel performance.
Engine Oil - the engine oil has to be checked by removing the dip stick from the forklift engine. The dipstick will show the colour of the oil and the level of the oil. The oil must be refilled if the level is very low. If the colour is off, there might be contamination occurring.
Fire Extinguisher - forklifts are required by law to carry a fire extinguisher. This fire extinguisher will need to be tested to ensure it would work correctly in case of a fire. Various types of fire extinguisher must be checked in specific ways. Like for instance, a dry chemical extinguisher must be shaken.