Forklift Daily Pre-Shift Inspection

OSHA 1910.178-required pre-shift forklift inspection. Operators must complete this before beginning shift; failures take the unit out of service until repaired.

Inspection Setup

• Forklift identification recorded
  Record unit ID, make/model, and location so the inspection is tied to the correct powered industrial truck.
• Operator completed inspection before beginning shift
  Verify the inspection is performed before the forklift is used for the shift.
• Previous shift defects reviewed and resolved or documented
  Check whether any prior deficiencies were repaired, verified, or the unit remained out of service.

Walk-Around Visual Inspection

• No visible fluid leaks under or around unit
  Inspect the floor and underside for hydraulic, fuel, coolant, or oil leaks.
• Tires free of excessive wear, cuts, flat spots, or embedded debris
  Check all tires for damage, abnormal wear, and secure condition.
• Forks, carriage, and load backrest in safe condition
  Inspect forks for cracks, bends, excessive wear, and secure mounting; verify carriage and load backrest are intact.
• Mast, chains, rollers, and uprights free of visible damage
  Look for bent components, damaged chains, missing hardware, or abnormal wear.
• Overhead guard and frame free of damage
  Verify the overhead guard, chassis, and structural members are intact and not visibly compromised.
• Battery, fuel tank, or propane cylinder secure and undamaged
  Confirm the power source is properly secured, connected, and free of visible damage or leakage.

Operational Checks

• Service brake functions normally
  Test the service brake for proper stopping response and control.
• Parking brake holds the forklift securely
  Verify the parking brake engages and holds the unit in place.
• Steering responds smoothly without excessive play
  Check steering response and note any unusual looseness, binding, or noise.
• Lift, lower, tilt, and side-shift controls operate correctly
  Test all hydraulic and load-handling controls for proper movement and response.
• Horn and backup alarm function properly
  Verify audible warning devices are operational.
• Lights, strobe, and other required warning devices operate
  Check headlights, work lights, beacon, and other site-required warning equipment.
• Mast raises, lowers, and tilts without abnormal noise or binding
  Operate the mast through its range of motion and note any jerking, binding, or unusual noise.

Safety Devices and Documentation

• Seat belt or operator restraint is present and functional
  Verify the restraint system is available, undamaged, and usable.
• Data plate / capacity plate legible and present
  Confirm the forklift capacity and identification plate is readable and not missing.
• Operator compartment clean and free of loose objects
  Check the operator area for debris or loose items that could interfere with safe operation.
• Deficiencies documented and unit removed from service if unsafe
  If any critical item fails or a safety deficiency is found, document the issue and remove the forklift from service until repaired.
• Inspector signature
  Operator or inspector confirms the inspection is complete and accurate.