A proper forklift inspection before each shift isn’t just a best practice—it’s a requirement. Overlooking this step can lead to serious accidents, costly downtime, and non-compliance with WorkSafeBC regulations.
So what should your operators be looking for?
Let’s break it down step-by-step.
You might be tempted to assume your equipment is in good shape, especially if it was working fine yesterday. But forklifts undergo a lot of wear and tear during daily operations.
A daily inspection can:
Catch problems early before they become dangerous
Prevent mechanical failure during operation
Keep your company compliant with workplace safety regulations
Protect workers and pedestrians on site
Reduce repair costs through early detection
Neglecting inspections isn’t worth the risk—especially when the process only takes a few minutes.
Before an operator begins using any forklift at the start of a shift, it is essential to complete a two-part inspection process to ensure the equipment is in safe working condition. This process includes both a visual inspection (conducted with the engine turned off) and an operational check (performed after starting the forklift). Skipping either step increases the risk of breakdowns, injuries, and regulatory violations—and can also result in costly downtime and liability for your business.
The visual inspection allows you to catch signs of damage, leaks, wear, or safety issues that are visible without operating the machine. These checks focus on the condition of key components such as the forks, mast, tires, hydraulic hoses, seatbelt, battery, and safety devices. The goal here is to detect anything that could make the forklift unsafe to operate before it’s even turned on.
The operational check, on the other hand, ensures that all functions of the forklift work as intended once the machine is running. This includes testing the brakes, steering, lifting controls, horn, backup alarms, gauges, and other warning systems. Just because a forklift looks fine on the outside doesn’t mean it’s operating correctly inside—so this step is just as important as the walkaround.
Both inspections work together to provide a full picture of the forklift’s condition. A proper check should take five to ten minutes and be completed at the start of every shift, regardless of how recently the machine was used or who operated it last. It’s a simple but powerful habit that every trained operator should follow without exception.
Let’s break down exactly what to look for in each step.
Start by walking around the forklift. Here’s what to check:
1. Forks and Mast
Are the forks straight, crack-free, and not bent?
Are the locking pins secure?
Is the mast free from damage, leaks, or obstructions?
2. Hydraulic Hoses & Chains
Look for worn, cracked, or leaking hoses
Check for signs of kinking, fraying, or slack in lift chains
3. Tires
Are tires inflated (if pneumatic) or in good shape (if solid)?
Any chunks missing or signs of excessive wear?
4. Fluid Levels
Check engine oil, coolant, and hydraulic fluid
Low levels could indicate a leak or overdue maintenance
5. Battery (Electric Forklifts)
Are cables and terminals secure and corrosion-free?
Is the electrolyte level where it should be?
6. Seatbelt and Safety Devices
Does the seatbelt buckle and retract properly?
Check lights, horns, mirrors, and backup alarms
7. Visible Damage or Obstructions
Inspect the overhead guard, carriage, and counterweight
Remove any debris from the cab or floor area
Make note of any issues—don’t assume someone else will catch them later.
Once the visual inspection is complete, start the forklift and test the following:
1. Brakes and Parking Brake
Do the service brakes engage smoothly?
Does the parking brake hold the lift in place?
2. Steering and Controls
Is the steering responsive and free from play?
Test all controls for lifting, tilting, and side-shifting
3. Horn, Lights, and Alarms
Ensure all warning devices work properly
Never operate without a functioning horn
4. Gauges and Instruments
Check for warning lights or error codes
Verify battery charge (electric) or fuel level (gas/diesel/propane)
5. Lift and Tilt Mechanisms
Raise, lower, and tilt the forks while checking for unusual noises
Watch for jerky movement or lagging hydraulics
If anything feels off, stop and report the issue.
Don’t ignore it.
If the forklift fails any part of the inspection, it must be tagged “Out of Service” and removed from use immediately.
Operators must:
Tag it out and report the issue to their supervisor or maintenance team right away.
Fill out the daily inspection checklist and log the defect.
Wait until repairs are completed and clearance is given for the forklift to be put back in operation.
Operating a damaged forklift isn’t just unsafe—it can result in fines, liability, or worse.
A daily forklift inspection is only effective if it’s documented properly. That’s where a detailed checklist comes in. It helps operators stay consistent, ensures nothing gets missed, and provides a written record for safety audits or WorkSafeBC compliance.
Your checklist should be simple, clear, and tailored to your specific equipment. Whether you’re running electric, propane, diesel, or narrow aisle units, the form should guide operators through every required check—step by step.
Here’s what to include:
The operator’s name and date of inspection
The forklift identification number or unit name
A section for visual inspection items (checked before startup)
A section for operational inspection items (checked after startup)
A pass/fail column beside each item
A comment area for any notes or issues found
A space for the operator’s signature to confirm completion
This checklist should be completed at the start of every shift and turned in or logged according to your internal safety process. If a problem is found, it must be clearly noted, and the forklift should be tagged out until it’s repaired and cleared for use.
Even the best inspection checklist won’t do much if your operators aren’t properly trained. Knowing how to spot mechanical issues, when to stop using a forklift, and how to follow safety procedures all comes down to proper education and hands-on experience.
At Rob’s Forklift Training, we go beyond the basics. Our certification and recertification programs teach operators how to perform detailed, real-world inspections—not just on paper, but on the actual equipment they use every day. They learn what warning signs to look for, how to respond to defects, and when to remove a machine from service.
Training can be delivered onsite, using your machines and your work environment. That means your operators are learning in the same setting they work in, with equipment they’re familiar with. This practical approach makes the training more relevant and easier to apply on the job.
We serve businesses throughout British Columbia, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Langley, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re onboarding new team members or updating certifications for experienced staff, we tailor each session to fit your operation, schedule, and safety needs.
If your current inspection process feels inconsistent or rushed, we can help fix that. A five-minute forklift check is only effective when your team knows exactly what to do—and why it matters.
Are your operators confident in their inspection skills? If not, now is the time to book training with Rob’s Forklift Training. We’ll help your team work smarter, safer, and in full compliance.