For the use of lift trucks, there are several safety and health rules governing their use. Lift trucks are large industrial machinery that can be dangerous and have to be handled with safety in mind. The rules and regulations state that the operator must carry out daily inspections on the forklift and more thorough checks on a weekly basis and every month. The following checks need to be carried out on the lift truck:
Lift Truck Brakes - brakes on lift trucks are key features that must be double and triple checked. A brake check is performed 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 important for the safe functioning of the forklift truck and to the braking system. All the tires have to be inspected properly to make certain that there are no punctures in the tires and they are inflated to the proper pressure.
Controller - To know whether the system is in good working condition, the lift truck controller system needs to be inspected by operating the forks and the release mechanism. Any sign of problems should immediately reported and tended to. The lift truck must not be used until the controller system has been repaired.
Steering Wheel - the driver must inspect the forklift steering wheel in order 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 a variety of inspections which can be carried out to determine the performance of the steering wheel.
Engine Oil - the Removing the oil dip stick from the engine with help determine if the engine needs oil. The dipstick will show the oil color and the oil level. The oil must be refilled if the level is too 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 would have to be checked to ensure it would function correctly in case of a fire. Different types of fire extinguisher should be inspected in specific ways. Like for instance, a dry chemical extinguisher must be shaken.