For the utilization of forklifts, there are a few health and safety guidelines governing their utilization. Forklifts are big industrial machines that could be dangerous and need to be handled with safety in mind. The regulations and rules state that the operator should perform daily checks on the lift truck and more thorough checks every week and on a monthly basis. The following inspections should be performed on the forklift:
Lift Truck Brakes - brakes on lift trucks are important features that should be double and triple checked. A brake check is done 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 - lift truck tires are also key for the safe functioning of the lift truck and to the braking system. All the tires must be correctly inspected to ensure they are inflated to the proper pressure and that there are no punctures in the tires.
Controller - To know whether the system is in good working condition, the forklift controller system has to be checked by operating the forks and the release mechanism. Any sign of problems must immediately reported and tended to. The forklift should not be utilized until the controller system has been repaired.
Steering Wheel - the operator should check the forklift steering wheel to make sure the turning of the wheel is correct. Lift truck safety depends upon the steering wheel working accurately and responding well. There are various types of inspections that can be done to determine steering wheel performance.
Engine Oil - the Removing the oil dip stick from the engine with help determine if the engine requires oil. The dipstick will show the colour of the oil and the level of the oil. The oil should 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 will need to be tested to ensure it would function correctly in the event of a fire. Different types of fire extinguisher should be checked in specific ways. For instance, a dry chemical extinguisher has to be shaken.