For the utilization of lift trucks, there are some health and safety guidelines governing their utilization. Lift trucks are big industrial machinery which could be dangerous and need to be handled with safety in mind. The regulations and rules state that the operator should conduct daily checks on the forklift and more thorough checks each and every week and each and every month. The following checks must be carried out on the lift truck:
Forklift Brakes - brakes on forklifts are key features which must be double and triple checked. A brake check is done with various pressures and pedal heights to determine the sensitivity of the brakes. The brake lights must be checked at the same time.
The Tires - lift truck tires are also key for the safe functioning of the forklift truck and to the braking system. All the tires should be inspected properly to make sure that there are no punctures in the tires and they are inflated to the proper pressure.
Controller - In order 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 hint of problems must be reported and tended to instantly. The lift truck should not be used until the controller system has been repaired.
Steering Wheel - the operator should check the forklift steering wheel to make certain the turning of the wheel is correct. Forklift safety depends upon the steering wheel functioning accurately and responding well. There are a variety of checks that can be carried out 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 would show both 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 could be contamination occurring.
Fire Extinguisher - lift trucks are required by law to carry a fire extinguisher. This fire extinguisher will have to be tested to ensure it will function correctly in case of a fire. Various types of fire extinguisher must be checked in specific ways. For example, a dry chemical extinguisher should be shaken.