The Daily Forklift Inspection Checklist Every Operator Should Use

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7) requires that industrial trucks be examined at least daily before being placed in service. That's a pre-shift inspection — done by the operator, documented, and any defects reported before the truck moves. Here's what we teach operators to check, in the order that works best in the real world.

Engine off — walk-around

• Tires: proper inflation (pneumatic), no chunks, no flat spots, no exposed cord.
• Forks: no cracks, tips not bent, heel not worn past 10% of blade thickness.
• Mast, chains, and hoses: no visible damage, no chain stretch, no hydraulic leaks.
• Overhead guard and backrest: securely mounted, no cracked welds.
• Data plate: legible — capacity, load center, attachment info still visible.
• Fluids: check hydraulic, engine oil, coolant, and fuel or battery water level.
• Battery (electric): connections tight, no corrosion, cables in good shape.
• LP tank (propane): correctly mounted, pin engaged, hose in good condition.

Engine on — operational checks

• Gauges and warning lights: all normal, no fault codes.
• Horn: works.
• Lights and backup alarm: work if equipped.
• Steering: full lock left and right, no binding, no wander.
• Service brake: firm, stops the truck without pulling.
• Parking brake: holds on a slight incline.
• Hydraulics: lift, lower, tilt forward and back, side-shift if equipped — smooth, no drift.
• Seat belt: fastens, retracts, no fraying.
• Operator presence system: cuts hydraulics when you stand up.

Document it

Write it down. A pre-shift inspection isn't compliant if there's no record. Any defect that affects safe operation has to be reported and the truck taken out of service until it's fixed.