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Forklift Pre-Start Checklist

Forklift daily inspection: complete before first use

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PAGE 1 OF 2

Forklift & Operator Details

Inspection Items

Circle or mark the applicable column for each item: P = Pass  |  F = Fail  |  N/A = Not applicable. Record notes for any F.

# Check P F N/A Notes / Action
Overhead Guard, Mast & Forks
1Overhead guard: secure, no damage, no obstructions
2Mast: no bends, cracks or damage; chains and rollers visible and intact
3Lift chains: correct tension, no wear or damage
4Forks: straight, no cracks; fork positioning locks working
5Carriage: secure, no damage; backrest extension (if fitted) secure
6Load capacity plate: legible, in place
Hydraulics & Controls
7Lift/lower: smooth, no drift when raised; no leaks
8Tilt: forward and back smooth; no leaks at rams or hoses
9Side shift (if fitted): operates correctly
10Hydraulic hoses: no leaks, no damage, fittings secure
11Hydraulic oil level: correct range
12Steering: no excessive play, responds correctly
13Brakes: pedal feel, park brake holds on slope
Lights, Horn & Safety
14Lights: headlights, tail lights, beacon (if fitted) working
15Horn: audible
16Reversing alarm / blue spot (if fitted)
17Seatbelt: working, not damaged (if fitted)
18Seat: secure, adjusted; operator clear of crush zones
19Fire extinguisher: present, in date, accessible
20Safety decals / labels: legible and in place
Forklift Pre-Start Checklist - Page 2 of 2
Forklift ID
Date
Operator
# Check P F N/A Notes / Action
Tyres, Engine / Battery & Fluids
21Tyres / wheels: condition, pressure (pneumatic); no damage (solid)
22Engine oil level: dipstick in correct range (IC forklifts)
23Coolant level: reservoir in correct range (IC forklifts)
24Fuel / LPG: sufficient for shift; no leaks (IC / LPG)
25Battery: charge level, terminals secure, no corrosion (electric)
26Leaks: no oil, coolant, fuel or hydraulic leaks
27Exhaust: secure, no excessive smoke (IC forklifts)
Documentation & Compliance
28Design registration / inspection current (if applicable)
29Operator licence / competency: current (if required)
30Keys: present; forklift starts, runs and stops correctly
Overall Result
PASS: all items satisfactory, forklift fit for use FAIL: defect(s) identified, see table below

Defects & Action Required  (list any item marked F: reference item # from checklist)

Item # Defect description Action taken / reported to Rectified by / date

Declaration

I declare that I have completed this forklift pre-start inspection before using this forklift. I have reported any defects or non-compliant items to my supervisor and will not use this forklift until any defects that affect safety have been rectified. I understand that failure to complete a pre-start check or to report defects may breach company policy and WHS obligations.

Operator Sign-off
Signature
Print name
Date & time
Supervisor / Reviewer Acknowledgement
Signature
Print name
Date