Performing an Inspection | 1
Powered Industrial Trucks (PIT) –
Performing an Inspection
PIT—Performing an Inspection
Proper maintenance helps keep forklifts operating safely. A Safety inspection is to be performed before operating the forklift each day, or at the beginning of a new shift if it is used around the clock.
Forklift Inspection Items
Inspect the forklift for damage, defects and unusual conditions. Consider the following items:
- The fork pins and stops must be in place.
- Cowling and body parts must not be broken, loose or missing.
- Check the fuel level, crankcase oil level, radiator fluid level, hydraulic fluid level and the battery electrolyte level.
- Check for any leaks, look underneath the truck and never use an open flame to help you see fluid levels.
- Check all belts, hoses and tires for excessive wear or damage.
- Check the operation of brakes, steering, lift and tilt controls, hour meter, lights and horn.
- Water mufflers are to be checked daily or often enough to keep them adequately filled.
Removal from Service
A forklift should be removed from service and repaired by an authorized person whenever:
- The forklift is in need of repair, is defective or in any way unsafe.
- The forklift emits hazardous sparks or flames from the exhaust.
- There are any leaks in the fuel system.
- A part of the forklift is found to be in excess of its normal operating temperature, creating a hazardous condition.
Forklift Repair
When repairing a forklift:
- Remember that only an authorized person may make repairs.
- Disconnect the battery before repairing the electrical system.
Flames and sparks or electrical arcs are to be prevented in battery charging areas. Smoking is not allowed. Tools and other metallic objects are to be kept away from the top of uncovered batteries.
Follow instruction for handling gasoline, diesel fuel, LP gas and for charging batteries.
Employee Training
Specific OSHA training requirements are found at 29 CFR 1910.178(1). You must ensure that each operator is competent to operate a powered industrial truck safely, as demonstrated by the successful completion of the training and evaluation specified in the above reference.
Training Tips
- Review the standard at 29 CFR 1910.178(1) with your employees.
- Discussthe requirements for the forklift training based on the type of forklift the driver will be operating and the need to be evaluated in the environment the driver will be operating.
For more information see:
- 29 CFR 1910.178(1)—Powered industrial Trucks, Operator Training
PIT—Performing an Inspection Handout
Proper maintenance helps keep forklifts operating safely. A Safety inspection is to be performed before operating the forklift each day, or at the beginning of a new shift.
Forklift Inspection Items
Inspect the forklift for damage, defects and unusual conditions. Consider the following items:
- The fork pins and stops must be in place.
- Cowling and body parts must not be broken, loose or missing.
- Check the fuel level, crankcase oil level, radiator fluid level, hydraulic fluid level and the battery electrolyte level.
- Check for any leaks. Look underneath the truck. Never use an open flame to help you see fluid levels.
- Check all belts, hoses and tires for excessive wear or damage.
- Check the operation of brakes, steering, lift and tilt controls, hour meter, lights and horn.
- Water mufflers are to be checked daily or often enough to keep them adequately filled.
Removal from Service
A forklift should be removed from service and repaired by an authorized person whenever:
- The forklift is in need of repair, is defective or in any way unsafe.
- The forklift emits hazardous sparks or flames from the exhaust.
- There are any leaks in the fuel system.
- A part of the forklift is found to be in excess of its normal operating temperature, creating a hazardous condition.
Powered Industrial Trucks—Handling Loads Sign–Off Sheet
The employees of ______Company Name______, have taken part in a training session Powered Industrial Trucks—Handling Loads. The session covered:
- How to perform an inspection.
- Who may repair a forklift.
- Who may operate a forklift.
Date of Training: / Facility:
Employee Signature / PRINT NAME
______
Supervisor’s Signature