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Daily Forklift Inspection Checklist
Pre-shift checks for a forklift, from leaks and tires to brakes, horn and mast.
A real, editable checklist below — tick, tap a line to rewrite, drag to reorder.
Tick the circles, tap any line to change it, drag the dots to reorder.
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Inspect the truck before every shift it operates. Forklift Academy cites 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7), which requires inspection every shift a truck operates. The checks split into engine off and engine on, with a few extras for propane, electric and combustion trucks. A truck that fails a check isn't safe to use, and skipping checks risks an accident and an OSHA citation. The list assumes a trained operator. It doesn't replace your operator's manual or your employer's own inspection form.
Why these items are on the list
- Park on level ground, engine off. Uneven ground can give false fluid readings, so check levels on a flat surface.
- Look under the truck for leaks. Fluid on the ground can mean a leak: hydraulic oil, engine oil, coolant or fuel.
- Check oil, coolant and hydraulic fluid. Papé's OSHA-based list adds brake fluid. Anything not right goes to a qualified mechanic.
- Inspect tires for damage and pressure. Look for uneven wear, bubbles, cracks and bumps. Replace damaged tires as soon as possible.
- Inspect forks and locking pins. Check for cracks and bends, measure thickness for evenness, and confirm pins are secure.
- Check mast, chains and hoses. Look for frayed cables, loose connections and damaged hoses, and watch for hydraulic leaks.
- Confirm overhead guard and backrest attached. Finger guards and the load backrest should be secure too.
- Check the seat belt works. The seat belt should be functioning smoothly before you start work.
- Look for a charged fire extinguisher. It should be present and fully charged.
- Propane: check tank and valve. Look for damage, rust or leaks. The relief valve should point upward.
- Electric: check battery and cables. On lead-acid batteries, check water levels; check terminals for corrosion, secure connections and frayed wires.
- Combustion: check radiator, hoses, belts. Clear built-up dust, and look for cracks or damage in hoses and belts.
- Check nameplate and operator's manual. Nameplate details should match the model, attachments and serial number. The manual stays in its holder.
- Clear the path and overhead space. Check for obstacles overhead or in the route that could cause an accident.
- Start engine, listen for odd noises. Unusual noise or vibration means shut down and report it.
- Test service and parking brakes. Test both before moving the truck out to work.
- Test steering response. If it feels less smooth or responsive than usual, tell your supervisor before using the truck.
- Test horn, lights and backup alarm. Headlights, brake lights and any strobe or safety lights all count.
- Run hoist, lower and tilt controls. Movement should be smooth. A faulty mast can create dangerous operating conditions.
- Check gauges and instruments. Oil pressure, hour meter, fuel level, temperature and ammeter, where fitted.
- Confirm capacity plate is legible. Never load beyond the rated limit shown on it.
- Fill in the checklist. Record date, shift, operator name, truck ID and findings, as Forklift Academy lists them.
- Report defects, tag unsafe trucks. Tag and isolate a truck with a serious defect, and tell your supervisor.
Carry it on your phone to the truck and tick as you go. Anything you can't pass stands out for the supervisor.
When to use it
Use it at the start of every shift, before the truck is driven.