Forklift inspection checklists and templates

Frequently asked questions

What should a forklift inspection checklist include?

A forklift pre-start checklist covers tyres and wheels, forks and carriage, mast and chains, hydraulic hoses and cylinders, brakes (service and parking), steering, lights and horn, seat belt, load backrest, overhead guard, fluid levels and any leaks. Operators should also check the operating environment for hazards before starting work.

How often should forklifts be inspected?

In the US, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7) requires each truck to be examined at least daily before it is placed in service, and after each shift where trucks are used around the clock. A truck must not be placed in service if the examination shows any condition adversely affecting its safety. In Great Britain, LOLER 1998 requires a thorough examination of the lifting parts, such as the chains and forks, at least every 12 months (every 6 months if the truck is used to lift people), or at the intervals set by an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person. PUWER 1998 covers the other safety-related parts, such as the brakes, steering and tyres. Best practice is a daily pre-start check by the operator plus periodic maintenance inspections at manufacturer-recommended intervals. HSE notes that inspections done as part of a preventive maintenance scheme or scheduled service are not a thorough examination.

What OSHA standards apply to forklift inspections?

In general industry, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 covers powered industrial trucks, including forklifts. It requires operator training and evaluation, an examination at least daily before a truck is placed in service, and removal from service of any truck that is not in safe operating condition, with defects reported and corrected immediately. OSHA's interpretation letters say the daily examination does not have to be written down, though an employer can require a written checklist. The employer must certify each operator's training and evaluation (1910.178(l)(6)). In construction, 29 CFR 1926.602 requires trucks in use to meet the applicable inspection, testing and maintenance requirements of ANSI B56.1-1969, and its operator training rule is identical to 1910.178(l).