Pre-Use Forklift Inspection Guide and Safety Checklist

The Importance of Forklift Inspections

Proper forklift inspections are critical not only for safety, but also for compliance and operational efficiency. While many accidents are caused by operator behavior, equipment-related failures—such as brake malfunctions, fluid leaks, or chain defects—can also lead to serious injuries or fatalities when forklifts are not adequately inspected prior to use.

Although manufacturers, regulatory bodies like OSHA, and responsible companies all recommend routine pre-operation inspections, these procedures are often rushed, poorly documented, or completely skipped. The consequences of neglecting inspections extend far beyond safety risks: regulatory fines for non-compliance can cost thousands of dollars, and a single incident could damage a company’s finances, property, reputation—and worst of all, lives.

A simple but thorough pre-shift inspection checklist can significantly reduce these risks. Beyond improving safety and ensuring compliance, routine inspections also support early issue detection and predictive maintenance, allowing businesses to address problems before they escalate. Catching minor issues early helps reduce unplanned downtime, save repair costs, and maintain productivity. Implementing a solid inspection protocol is not difficult, but it requires consistent management support and operator discipline to be effective.

Forklift Inspection Requirements: What Does OSHA Say?

Under OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910.178, forklift inspections are mandatory on a daily basis, and after each shift if the equipment is used continuously. Any faults discovered during an inspection must be reported immediately, and the forklift must be taken out of service until repaired.

Although OSHA doesn’t specify a fixed inspection format, most manufacturers provide guidelines and sample checklists that can be adapted to your specific models and needs.

What Should Be on Your Daily Forklift Inspection Checklist?

If you’re operating a Toyota forklift—or any other model—a good daily checklist should include the following inspection points: