Forklift Inspection Checklist

Complete before each shift. Tag the truck out of service if any check fails.

Published July 5, 2026

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Visual checks (engine off)

Check for fluid leaks or puddles under the forklift.
Inspect forks for cracks, bends, wear and a sound heel.
Look closely at the heel and tips; surface cracks or thinning blade thickness indicate dangerous failure risks.
Verify the load backrest and carriage are secure and undamaged.
Check the mast, chains and rollers for wear and proper lubrication.
Inspect hoses and hydraulic cylinders for leaks or damage.
Confirm overhead guard is intact and free of damage.

Tires and wheels

Inspect tires for cuts, chunking and excessive wear.
Check pneumatic tire pressure against the rating.
Verify wheel nuts and lugs are present and tight.
Confirm no debris is wrapped around the axles.
Check that tires are the correct type for the surface.
Inspect rims for cracks or damage.

Fluids and power

Check engine oil, coolant and hydraulic fluid levels.
Verify fuel or LPG level and inspect for leaks.
On electric trucks, check battery charge, water and connections.
Wear safety goggles and gloves when checking battery fluid; verify vent caps and cables are tight.
Confirm the LPG cylinder is secure and the hose is sound.
Ensure locating pins align with the tank collar and check the rubber vapor hose for cracking or gas odor.
Inspect belts and the air filter where fitted.
Check the radiator and cooling fins are clear.

Operational checks (engine on)

Test service and parking brakes for firm, even response.
Test the brake pedal feel; it should stop the machine smoothly within a safe distance without spongy travel.
Check steering operates smoothly with no excess play.
Raise, lower and tilt the mast to confirm smooth hydraulics.
Verify the forks hold position with no hydraulic drift.
Raise the mast slightly and watch for downward movement or tilt drift that points to leaking internal seals.
Check gauges and warning lights read normally.
Listen for abnormal engine or hydraulic noise.

Safety devices

Test the horn for clear, audible operation.
Confirm lights, beacon and backup alarm work.
Check the seatbelt latches and retracts.
OSHA requires seatbelt use where the truck is equipped with one.
Verify mirrors and visibility are clear and adjusted.
Confirm the data plate is legible and capacity is known.
Verify the capacity plate matches any fitted attachments, as attachments lower maximum load limits.
Check the fire extinguisher where one is mounted.
Confirm the operator is trained and certified for this truck.

Operator sign-off

Hour meter reading: ________________
Result (Pass / Fail): ____
Defects reported to (supervisor): ________________
Signature: ________________

0 / 35 done

Prior to each shift, operators use a forklift inspection checklist to confirm a forklift is safe to run. It covers the forks, tires, hydraulics, brakes, horn and data plate, with a clear pass or fail standard for each item, aligned with OSHA's requirement to inspect powered industrial trucks before use.

Forklifts are among the most common sources of serious workplace injuries. A worn fork, a soft brake or a leaking hydraulic line can cause a dropped load or tip-over, so OSHA requires these trucks to be examined at least daily before being placed in service.

Use this checklist as a daily routine for forklift operators, run before startup for the visual checks and after startup for the operational checks. Mark each item, tag out any truck that fails, and report defects to a supervisor or mechanic.

Print the checklist for the truck or logbook, or download the PDF to complete on a tablet and keep with your forklift records. Pre-use inspections supplement, and do not replace, OSHA 1910.178, the manufacturer's manual and training by a qualified operator trainer.

Regulatory basis: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7) requires powered industrial trucks to be examined before being placed in service, at least daily — and after each shift where trucks run around the clock. Under 1910.178(p)(1), a truck found defective or unsafe must be taken out of service until it is repaired. Rules change and vary by jurisdiction — confirm against the current regulation text, your employer's procedures and the manufacturer's manual.

FAQ

What is a forklift inspection checklist?

It's a daily pre-operation list used to confirm a forklift is safe before use, covering forks, tires, hydraulics, brakes, horn and the data plate. Each item is marked pass or fail to satisfy OSHA's pre-use examination requirement.

Does OSHA require a daily forklift inspection?

Yes. OSHA 1910.178 requires powered industrial trucks to be examined at least daily before being placed in service, and before each shift when used around the clock. Defective trucks must be taken out of service.

Who can inspect a forklift?

A trained and authorized operator performs the daily pre-use inspection. Detailed repairs and periodic maintenance should be carried out by a qualified mechanic following the manufacturer's manual.

What should I do if a forklift fails inspection?

Remove the forklift from service immediately, tag it out, and report the defect to your supervisor or maintenance. Do not operate it until the fault is repaired and the truck is re-inspected.

Do I have to keep forklift inspection records?

OSHA's rule requires the examination itself, not a written record. Most employers still keep the signed daily checklist as proof the check happened and to spot recurring defects across shifts.

How often should a forklift be inspected during multi-shift operations?

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(q)(7) requires an examination before a truck is placed in service, at least daily, and after each shift where trucks are used around the clock. Many employers go further and have every operator run the check at the start of their own shift, so each driver confirms the truck is safe before taking it over.

What specific details should be recorded on a forklift inspection log?

A complete log includes the date, shift, operator name, truck model and fleet number, and current hour meter reading. It should track key mechanical components, fluids, steering, horn, safety belts, and reverse alarms, noting any defects found before signing off.

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