Before the Shift
Forklift operating precautions should be written for the actual truck, load and workplace. Before use, the trained operator should complete the inspection required by the equipment manual and report defects affecting safe operation.
- Check controls, brakes, steering, forks or attachment, tyres, warning devices and visible leaks or damage.
- Confirm the load is within the rated configuration and does not obstruct the required view.
- Verify that pedestrians, crossings, doorways and shared traffic routes are controlled.
Route and Load Controls
Review the route’s floor, thresholds, ramps, dock plates, aisle width, turning areas and overhead clearances. Keep the load stable, travel at a controlled speed and follow the model’s limits for travel with a raised or obscuring load.
Do not apply a site-specific rule such as a fixed fork height, display voltage or mixing-tank-only instruction to another truck or workplace without written evidence and a local risk assessment.
Faults and Emergency Stops
If a control, brake, steering system, battery, hydraulic system or safety device behaves abnormally, stop the truck according to the manual, isolate it as required and report the fault to the responsible person. Only authorised, qualified personnel should repair or return the truck to service.
| Control | Site question |
|---|---|
| Inspection | What checklist and defect-reporting process applies? |
| Load | What is the rated capacity at the actual load centre and lift height? |
| Traffic | How are pedestrians, crossings and blind corners separated? |
| Emergency | How is the truck stopped, isolated and reported after a fault? |
RFQ Checklist
- Truck or attachment model and current operating manual.
- Load weight, dimensions, support method and load centre.
- Route, floor, ramps, doors, crossings and clearance.
- Duty cycle, operating hours and charging or refuelling access.
- Training, inspection, documentation and destination requirements.
Safety and Evidence Boundary
Training, inspections, load handling and traffic controls must follow the current equipment manual and applicable local requirements. OSHA’s powered industrial truck resources are general guidance and do not approve a site-specific procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a checklist from one forklift be reused unchanged?
No. The checklist should match the truck, attachment, battery or engine, load and workplace.
What should happen when a safety control fails?
Stop and isolate the equipment according to the manual, report the fault and use only authorised repair and return-to-service procedures.
What information helps a supplier review the task?
Send the truck or attachment identity, load, route, duty cycle, inspection requirements and destination documents.
Request a site review: browse the listed material handling equipment and submit the operating conditions through the procurement enquiry form.
References
[1] OSHA, Powered Industrial Trucks.
