How often should a forklift be inspected?

Before it's used, and at least daily. Trucks that run around the clock should be checked at each shift change. OSHA's powered industrial truck standard calls for an examination before a truck goes into service and at least daily, so check the current rule and your site's own policy.

What should I do if the forklift fails the check?

Stop using it. Tag it out of service so nobody else drives it, tell your supervisor, and write down what failed. It goes back into service after it's been repaired and checked.

Does this checklist meet OSHA requirements?

It's a starting point. Your truck's operator manual, your company procedures and the rules that apply to you decide what must be checked. Add or remove lines to match. A checklist records that a check happened. It doesn't guarantee compliance.

Free template

A forklift pre-use checklist you can print today.

Walk the truck before it moves. Check it with the engine off, then check it running. If anything fails, tag it out and report it. Print the sheet or save it as a PDF.

Also calledForklift daily checklist, Powered industrial truck inspection, Forklift pre-shift check

See the sheet All free tools

Free to print, copy and change. It’s a starting point. Add the lines your equipment and your rules need.

Edit it in the builder

Forklift pre-use checklist

Date

Time

Site or location

Operator name

Truck or unit number

Hour meter reading

Before you start (engine off)

PassFailN/A

Data plate is in place and readable
Forks are straight, with no cracks or bent tips
Fork heels and positioning latches are in good condition
Carriage and load backrest are secure
Mast, chains and rollers show no damage or wear
Hydraulic hoses and cylinders are free of leaks
Tires and wheels are in good condition, wheel nuts are tight
Overhead guard is intact
Battery or propane tank is secure, with no leaks
Engine oil, coolant and hydraulic fluid levels are correct
Operator seat and seat belt are in good condition
Mirrors, lights and warning devices are clean and undamaged

After you start (engine on)

PassFailN/A

Horn works
Back-up alarm and lights work
Steering moves freely, without excess play
Service brake stops the truck
Parking brake holds
Lift, tilt and side-shift controls work smoothly
Gauges and instruments work
No unusual noises, smells or vibration
Fire extinguisher is in place, if your site requires one

Defects found and action taken

Taken out of service? Yes NoReported to

Inspector signature

Date

Supervisor review

Date

A starting point. Adapt it to your equipment, your procedures and the rules that apply to you.Free template from portalbaseai.com

How to use it

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Step 1
Check before every shift
Do it before the truck is used, and again at a shift change if the truck runs around the clock.
Step 2
Mark every line
Pass, fail or not applicable. Don't leave a line blank. A blank line is a question nobody can answer later.
Step 3
Tag out a failure
If a safety item fails, don't use the truck. Tag it, report it and write what you found.

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Run this check on a phone, with a photo on any failed step, no signal needed. A failed step opens a repair and the record is kept for you.

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Common questions

How often should a forklift be inspected?: Before it's used, and at least daily. Trucks that run around the clock should be checked at each shift change. OSHA's powered industrial truck standard calls for an examination before a truck goes into service and at least daily, so check the current rule and your site's own policy.
What should I do if the forklift fails the check?: Stop using it. Tag it out of service so nobody else drives it, tell your supervisor, and write down what failed. It goes back into service after it's been repaired and checked.
Does this checklist meet OSHA requirements?: It's a starting point. Your truck's operator manual, your company procedures and the rules that apply to you decide what must be checked. Add or remove lines to match. A checklist records that a check happened. It doesn't guarantee compliance.

Related and more free tools

Free tool

A forklift pre-use checklist you can print today.

Forklift pre-use checklist

Before you start (engine off)

After you start (engine on)

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Check before every shift

Mark every line

Tag out a failure

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Get new free tools by email.

Common questions

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