Pre Shift Check

Forklift Pre Shift / Pre Operation Check

 

Before you drive the forklift you must check it to make sure it is safe to use, the forklift can be a dangerous machine if it is faulty or if the operator does not fully understand how to use it.

Read the operators manual and manufacture’s handbook before attempting to complete the checks needed and to familiarise yourself with the components of your forklift.

 The main purpose of pre operational checks:

• Identify and report damage or faults
• Prevent accidents
• Maintain the forklift

 

Making sure that the forklift is in a safe area, away from pedestrians and overhead obstructions, you can split the checks into three sections –

 

1. External check
2. Internal check
3. Operational check

 

The External check

Check the forks (tines) for any visible signs of cracks and that they are evenly spaced and locked into place with locking pins.

The load backrest guard is free from damage

The mast and assembly is in good condition and that there are no leakage from the hoses

The wheels and tyres and in good condition and that they have the right pressure (if pneumatic) and that there is no shrink-wrap caught behind them.

The overhead guard is fitted and secure with no damage

The Data plate (rated capacity plate) is fitted and is legible

The general condition of the forklift (especially around the counterweight) and that the cabin is clean and free of rubbish)

 

The Internal check

Check the engine compartment for leaks and that the hoses are in good condition, the fan belt has got good tension and that the filters are clean.

The battery is secure and in good condition, the electrolyte level is topped up (consult the operator’s manual for levels and use personal protective equipment as the battery contains acid.

Check the engine oil, transmission oil and coolant that the levels are within the limits

Make sure you have enough fuel e.g. LPG, Electric, Diesel depending on the forklift you are using and if using LPG make sure the cylinder is in good condition and has no leaks (also check that it is in date)

Hydraulic oil that it is topped up and the level is within the limits

Brake fluid and power steering levels (if applicable) are within limits

The seat is in good condition and the seat belt is securely fitted and in good operation (this could save your life)

The Operational check   

Get into the cabin using the correct technique (3 points of contact from the left side), Make sure the controls are in neutral and the handbrake is on. Insert the key and start the engine (as per operators manual)

Check that all the gauges and warning devices are working (horn, lights, reversing beeper, flashing light and any other devices) that are fitted to your forklift.

Using the correct hydraulic levers raise the forks to the highest level and then lower, use your tilt lever and make sure you have full movement back and forth, same with side shift and any other levers that are on the forklift has full movement.

Move the forklift slowly and check that the brakes are working in both directions and that the handbrake is working and holds the forklift in place when forward gear is engaged.

 

 

Pre Operational Check Sheet – Weekly

 

Forklift ……………………..    Serial / Model …………………..

 

Week Beginning…………/………/…….....            Operator Name _________________

 

Operator Signature ________________   Supervisor Signature______________________             

Pre Operational Check Sheet – Weekly	MON	TUE	WED	THUR	FRI	SAT	SUN
External CheckFork arms / Tines
Load backrest
Mast Assembly and Chains
Wheels / Tyres
Overhead Guard
Data plate
General condition
Internal CheckEngine Compartment
Battery
Engine oil, Transmission oil, and Coolant.
Fuel / Gas cylinder
Hydraulic oil
Brake Fluid and Power Steering
Seat and Seat Belt
Operational checkWarning devices and gauges
Mast Hydraulics
Brakes
Logbook & manufacturer’s handbook or operating manual