Forklift Operator Checklist

Although forklifts are designed to perform rugged tasks, each time they are used they can get damaged in myriad of ways. That's why inspections are so important. At the start of each shift, perform both a visual inspection of the general condition and cleanliness of the lift truck, as well as an operational check to test its functioning properly. If you notice anything that may affect the normal operation of the forklift, immediately alert your supervisor.

Checklist for Visual Inspection

• floor clear of objects that could cause an accident
• no obstructions overhead.
• note any nearby objects to avoid as you drive away
• fire extinguisher present, and charged
• engine oil level, fuel level, radiator water level (LPG, gas and diesel forklifts)
• battery fully charged and securely in place
• cables for exposed wires
• battery plug connections not loose, worn or dirty
• vent caps not clogged
• electrolyte levels in cells
• hold downs or brackets
• bolts, nuts, guards, chains, or hydraulic hose reels not damaged, missing or loose
• wheels and tires not worn or damaged
• air pressure of pneumatic tires
• forks not bent or cracked
• positioning latches in good working condition
• carriage teeth not broken, chipped or worn
• chain anchor pins not worn, loose or bent
• no damp spots or drips that may indicate a leak
• hoses held securely, not loose, crimped, worn or rubbing

Checklist for Operational Pre-Use Inspection

• horn working and loud enough to be heard in working environment; other warning devices operational
• floor brake: pedal holds, unit stops smoothly
• parking brake: holds against slight acceleration
• deadman seat brake: holds when operator rises from seat
• clutch and gearshift: shifts smoothly with no jumping or jerking
• dash control panel: all lights and gauges operational
• steering: moves smoothly
• lift mechanism: operates smoothly (check by raising forks to maximum height then lowering completely)
• tilt mechanism: moves smoothly, holds (check by tilting mast all the way forward and backward)
• cylinders and hoses: not leaking after above checks
• no unusual sounds

Only permit qualified people to operate, service and maintain forklift and lift trucks. For assistance with your training and certification needs, contact Lucas today at 905-227-7554 or at info@lucasliftruck.com. 

How Long Will Your Forklift Tires Last?

To date, no exact science or formula exists for determining how long a set of forklift tires will last. Rather, maintenance staff, mechanics and technicians must examine a number of factors to determine when it’s time to change your lift truck tires. Several factors must be taken into consideration here, including the total number of operating hours and intensity of use, driving habits or operator style, application type (i.e., long runs without a load, excessive speed or rotation with a load), operating conditions, the tire type and compound, as well as the vehicle’s average load weight.

Note: these figures should only be used as estimations only. Determining the exact amount of acceptable wear for a given tire depends upon the size of the tires and the conditions in which it is operated. To avoid accidents, injury or damage, regular tire inspections should be included in each vehicle's monthly maintenance schedule.

With pneumatic forklift tires, a tire needs to be replaced after the outside diameter has worn approximately 2” to 3". Conversely, press on cushion tires need to be replaced after the outside diameter is worn by 1 1/2" or when 30-40% of the tire’s rubber is gone. Beyond tread wear, other signs that indicate a tire should be replaced include: undercutting, chunking and chipping.

• Undercutting occurs as a result of overloading and sharp or aggressive steering. This causes the rubber to begin receding from the metal band at the center of the tire.
• Chunking, as the name suggests, is when large pieces or chunks of rubber detach from the surface of the tire. Common causes include collisions with objects, repetitive contact with debris or refuse, and driving over coarse/jagged terrain.
• Chipping refers to damage to the surface of the tire such as incisions, slashes, nicks, punctures, and divots. Like chunking, this is often caused when cushion tires are regularly operated on coarse or irregular surfaces. 

While your forklift tires can still be “operational” with significant wear, there are a number of benefits to be gained by replacing worn out or deteriorating forklift or lift truck tires. Beyond the immediate safety concerns, there are also financial, operational and productivity risks to take into consideration.  By avoiding the costs associated with replacing worn out forklift tires, owners can incur far greater maintenance fees down the road as the additional vibration, strain and shock placed upon forklift components can result in equipment failures, downtime and have to prematurely replace essential parts and components. 

Worn tires can also have an impact on your operation’s productivity and efficiency as the increased vibration, instability and stress can result in above average operator strain, thereby reducing the operator’s ability to control the vehicle. This, in turn, limits the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, speed, turning capacity, and stopping power.

For inspections, repairs and replacements in the Niagara Region, contact Lucas Liftruck Services Ltd.

Phone: (905) 227-3291 
Email at info@lucasliftruck.com 

Avoid Costly Accidents and Employ a Planned Maintenance Service

Remember, your materials handling equipment requires maintenance. It’s got moving parts, just like your car. Each part plays a role in safely operating your forklift or lift truck on a daily basis. Consider this: a forklift rumbles down your aisles or yard carrying 3 to 5 times as much weight as your car, and you have your car serviced regularly. When machines breakdown due to neglect, it effects your business, but more importantly, it becomes an unsafe piece of equipment and could injure an employee causing much more than downtime, it could be the precursor for a devastating accident and even a lawsuit.

Your business and those responsible for keeping your business running efficiently are your priorities. The equipment you use to assist employees in their efforts need to be well maintained. Training is also a must, but maintaining the equipment goes a long way in the prevention of injuries due to faulty equipment. Forklifts should be inspected daily by the operator and serviced by a licensed technician up to four times a year.

A Stärke brand product is an excellent example of superior engineering, but even the very best material handling equipment requires regular maintenance to ensure the vehicle is operating at peak efficiency. This service is recommended by the manufacturer of every brand of machinery and should be followed to safeguard your employees and your business from unexpected downtime and accidents.

The cost of an accident will far exceed the cost of a planned maintenance program. Lucas liftruck is capable of servicing every make and model of forklift and lift truck, so if you have been on the fence about having a professional look at your materials handling equipment, Lucas Liftruck services can help.

Contact us today: 905-227-3291