Forklift Safety 🌎

In this topic, learners are taught the importance and general components of performing forklift safety inspections. This includes knowing what the two parts of the inspection are and when these visual and operational checks should be performed.

• Questions (level 1, 2, 3)

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• French

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1. Every operator must perform a forklift safety inspection before their shift begins to identify damage, prevent accidents, and to make sure the forklift is safe to use.

2. There are two parts to a forklift safety inspection: the visual check, and the operational check.

3. The forklift visual check is done by physically walking around the forklift to inspect its general condition before the forklift is started.

4. The forklift operational check is done when you turn the forklift on but before using the lift. This inspection makes sure that the operational components are working correctly.

5. Never operate a forklift if you find something wrong during either the visual or operational check, as it could jeopardize your safety or the safety of those around you.

6. If you find something wrong during the visual or operational check, follow your organization’s policy for reporting issues.

In this topic, learners are taught the importance and general components of performing a forklift visual check. This includes knowing what to look for and what common issues could be seen during a visual check.

• Questions (level 1, 2, 3)

Translated content is typically AI-generated, and in some instances, it's been human-reviewed. Review the list below for translation details within this topic.

• English

• French

  • Questions = AI-translated

• Spanish

  • Questions = AI-translated

1. When conducting a visual check of the forklift, walk around the forklift to look for any issues.

2. Check the tires for wear and damage like cuts or gouges. Forklift tires need to be in good condition to keep the operator and equipment safe, and to prevent damage to the load and facility.

3. Check all fluid levels, including oil, fuel, and radiator fluid to make sure they are at the appropriate levels.

4. Inspect the battery to make sure it is fully charged, and that there are no exposed wires or loose cable connectors, so the forklift won’t lose power unexpectedly.

5. Inspect the forks or mast for any signs of physical damage, including bends or cracks, so that the forklift can safely lift and transport any load.

6. Inspect the seatbelt to make sure that it works, and that there are no rips or tears so that its function hasn’t been compromised.

7. Make sure that the fire extinguisher is in the appropriate spot and is charged. Fire extinguishers are important, especially if flammable material is present in the work environment.

8. Make sure there are no damp spots, drips, or puddles on the ground from fluid leaks. Certain fluid leaks could seriously compromise the safe operation of the forklift.

9. Inspect any bolts, nuts, guards, chains, or hydraulic hose reels to make sure that nothing is damaged, missing, or loose.

In this topic, learners are taught the importance and general components of performing a forklift operational check. This includes knowing what to test, why it is important these components operate well during the check.

• Questions (level 1, 2, 3)

Translated content is typically AI-generated, and in some instances, it's been human-reviewed. Review the list below for translation details within this topic.

• English

• French

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• Spanish

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1. The horn and other warning devices on the forklift should be tested during the operational check to make sure they are functioning and loud enough to be heard in a working environment.

2. Test both headlights and the warning lights on the forklift to make sure they are working.

3. Inspect the dash control panel to make sure that all lights and gauges are working because they provide the operator with valuable information about the forklift’s performance and operation.

4. Test the clutch and gearshift to make sure they shift smoothly with no jumping or jerking.

5. Inspect the brakes to make sure the pedal holds, and they stop the lift smoothly.

6. Test the parking brake to see if it can hold against a slight acceleration.

7. Check that the deadman seat brake holds when you get up from the seat during the operational check.

8. Inspect the steering to make sure the wheels of the lift move smoothly and respond correctly.

9. Test the lift mechanism to make sure it operates smoothly. Raise the forks to maximum height, then lower the forks completely.

10. Test the tilt mechanism to make sure it moves smoothly and holds. Tilt the mast all the way forward and backward.

11. After checking the lift and tilt mechanisms, inspect the cylinders and hoses to make sure they aren’t leaking.

12. Listen for any abnormal noises coming from the forklift that could indicate a problem with its components or engine.

In this topic, the learner is taught how to conduct a workplace inspection prior to operating a forklift. Some issues covered include floor and ground conditions, pedestrians, machinery, and more.

• Questions (level 1, 2, 3)

Translated content is typically AI-generated, and in some instances, it's been human-reviewed. Review the list below for translation details within this topic.

• English

• French

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• Spanish

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1. Conduct a workplace inspection to make sure the work environment (floors, aisles, etc.) have no obstacles and are safe for forklift operation.

2. Make sure you are aware of the ground conditions in your work environment. Pay special attention to any slopes or spills that would make the floor slippery, or any ledges that could get in the way of the lift or cause it to tip over.

3. Look overhead to make sure there are no obstructions low enough to interfere with the forklift or the load being carried.

4. Observe how many people are currently working in your environment, so you’re aware of their presence.

5. Note any other forklifts or machinery operating in your environment during your shift, so you’re aware of the traffic you might encounter.

In this topic, the learner will be taught the safe practices for operating a forklift to minimize accidents and injuries. This includes proper attire, how to use a ramp, safe driving techniques, and more.

• Questions (level 1, 2, 3)

Translated content is typically AI-generated, and in some instances, it's been human-reviewed. Review the list below for translation details within this topic.

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• French

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• Spanish

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1. Wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like a hard hat, safety shoes, and a high-visibility jacket when operating a forklift to help keep you safe and to improve your visibility in the workplace.

2. If your hands have grease on them, don’t operate or hold any of the forklift controls as the grease can cause them to slide off and cause an accident.

3. Look in the direction you are traveling. If a load blocks your view, travel in reverse (except when driving up a ramp.)

4. When travelling up a ramp, always drive a loaded forklift with the forks pointed up the ramp to prevent the load from sliding off the forks.

5. When travelling down a ramp, always drive an unloaded forklift with the forks pointed down the ramp. This increases traction and helps with braking when going down or up a ramp.

6. Take corners and turns slowly to minimize the risk of the forklift tipping over.

7. Always look before backing up. Do not assume that workers on foot can see you, and vice versa.

8. Never let anyone ride the forklift, load, or stand on the forks, as the person can fall and be struck by the forklift.

9. Make sure that workers stay clear of the toppling radius of the load the forklift is carrying and that they don’t work under or near an elevated load. The load can fall and cause serious injury or death.

The topic will guide learners in what to do if a forklift tips over. It will cover basic preventive measures, possible consequences, and what to the forklift driver can do to brace themselves in the event of a tip.

• Questions (level 1, 2, 3)

Translated content is typically AI-generated, and in some instances, it's been human-reviewed. Review the list below for translation details within this topic.

• English

• French

  • Questions = AI-translated

• Spanish

  • Questions = AI-translated

1. Always wear your seat belt when operating a forklift. It can prevent you from being thrown out of the cabin and protect you from the impact if the lift were to tip over.

2. If the forklift you are operating is about to tip over, never jump out of the vehicle because you might not have enough time to get safely out of the way, and you could be pinned or severely injured.

3. If you think the forklift you are operating is about to tip over, grip the steering wheel to help absorb the initial impact of tipping over. This can also help make sure you aren’t thrown or that you don’t hit your head on the overhead guard.

4. If the forklift you are operating is about to tip over, use your feet to brace yourself by pushing back into the driver’s seat in the opposite direction of the fall. This can help minimize the risk of suffering an injury.