I often conduct training and assessment of experienced forklift drivers to obtain either their LF class licence or a VOC. However, the feedback from these trainees is that the all-important pre-start checks are not a part of many workplace cultures. As a result, failing to do these quick and easy checks can easily lead to a gradual and systematic degradation of plant safety. Over time, crucial faults or damage is un-noticed and can lead to serious incidents including injury, damage or even death in extreme cases.
What do forklift manufacturers say?
The items found on a check lists are those the forklift manufacturers recommend to check on a regular basis. Therefore, this should be evidence enough of the importance of completing safety checks.
Safe Work Australia recommendation
Safe Work Australia’s General Guide for Industrial Lift Truck states; “A pre-start safety check should be completed every time an operator uses a different industrial lift truck and at the beginning of each shift.”
Typical check items of a forklift
The pre-start safety check should include:
- reading the load rating plates to ensure the industrial lift truck and attachments are right for the task
- inspecting lift and tilt systems including attachments e.g. clamps, hydraulic lines for oil leaks, chains, cables and whether limiters are operating properly and safely
- checking steering, brakes including park brakes, operating controls and lights are operational
- inspecting each tyre for wear, damage and inflation for pneumatic types
- checking guarding is in place and functional e.g. around the battery compartment or fuel lines
- checking that warning devices are operational
- inspecting fork arms and attachments for deformation, damage or wear
- checking liquid levels e.g. hydraulic oil, brake fluid and water
- inspecting gas cylinders where necessary and their securing system, and
- testing seat belts to make sure they work reliably.
Time investment
Once an operator is familiar with the forklift’s components and operational features, time taken to complete a pre-start check would be around 5 – 7 minutes. The task is important however, it is repetitious so it’s a good idea to share the responsibility of completing pre-start checks to overcome complacency.
Making compliance easier
A paper based system is most common however there are a number of online systems available that make safety compliance easy and efficient. SiteDocs is one example. For a quick overview, you can view a 2:32 minute video here https://www.sitedocs.com
Onsite Forklift Licencing provide training and assessment for forklifts and walkie stackers throughout Western Australia. Our training emphasises the importance of safety compliance with regard to all aspects of forklift and walkie stacker operation.
Gil Deane.