Daily Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection

Per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7), forklifts must be examined before being placed in service. Industrial trucks that need repair or are in any way unsafe must be removed from service immediately. This checklist covers all OSHA-required visual and operational checks including forks, mast, overhead guard, safety devices, fluid levels, brakes, steering, and lift controls. Failure to complete daily inspections can result in OSHA citations up to $15,625 per violation.

Industry: Transport & Logistics
Frequency: Daily (before each shift)
Estimated Time: 5-10 minutes
Role: Forklift Operator
Total Items: 46
Compliance: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178, ANSI/ITSDF B56.1, CSA B335 (Canada), AS 2359 (Australia), OSHA 1926.602 (Construction)

Operator Certification Verification

Verify operator qualifications per OSHA 1910.178(l).

Operator certified per OSHA 1910.178(l)?
Certification current (within 3 years)?
Operator trained on this specific truck type?
Performance evaluation completed?

Visual Inspection (Engine Off)

Complete these checks before starting the forklift.

Tires in good condition (no cuts, gouges)?
Pneumatic tires properly inflated?
All wheel/lug nuts present and tight?
Forks straight (no cracks, bends, wear)?
Mast chains in good condition?
Mast has no visible damage?
No hydraulic fluid leaks?
Overhead guard secure and undamaged?
Load backrest secure?
Data plate legible?
...and 3 more items

Safety Devices

Check all safety equipment and devices.

Seat belt present and functional?
Seat in good condition?
Horn works?
Backup alarm works?
All lights working (head, tail, strobe)?
Mirrors present and clean?
Fire extinguisher present and charged?

Operational Test (Engine Running)

Complete these checks with the forklift running.

Engine/motor starts normally?
No unusual noises during operation?
No excessive exhaust smoke (IC)?
All gauges read normal?
Service brake works properly?
Parking brake holds?
Steering responds smoothly?
Lift mechanism operates smoothly?
Tilt mechanism operates smoothly?
Side shift operates (if equipped)?
...and 3 more items

Environmental Checks

Verify work environment is safe for forklift operation.

Floor conditions safe (no oil, water)?
Pedestrian traffic areas clear?
Lighting adequate in work area?
Aisle widths sufficient?
Ramps/inclines within rated capacity?

Initial Safety Assessment

Preliminary safety and compliance verification

Work area safe and hazard-free?
Required PPE available and in good condition?
Emergency exits clear and marked?
First aid supplies accessible?

Related Transport & Logistics Checklists

Related Warehouse Operations Checklists

Why Use This Daily Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection?

This daily forklift pre-operation inspection helps transport & logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for forklift operator professionals, this checklist covers 46 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: daily (before each shift).

Ensures compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178, ANSI/ITSDF B56.1, CSA B335 (Canada), AS 2359 (Australia), OSHA 1926.602 (Construction), NFPA 505. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Daily Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection cover?

This checklist covers 46 inspection items across 6 sections: Operator Certification Verification, Visual Inspection (Engine Off), Safety Devices, Operational Test (Engine Running), Environmental Checks, Initial Safety Assessment. It is designed for transport & logistics operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed daily (before each shift). Each completion takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

Who should use this Daily Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection?

This checklist is designed for Forklift Operator professionals in the transport & logistics industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.