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Use a digital forklift checklist to enhance workplace safety with a detailed inspection before equipment use.
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Published 5 Apr 2026
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3 min read
A forklift checklist is a tool used by operators to ensure that forklifts are in good working condition before use. Forklift checklists are used in conducting safety inspections and maintenance checks to reduce the likelihood of avoidable injuries and deaths caused by faulty forklifts.
Implementing a forklift inspection checklist is a crucial safety practice that benefits both employers and employees. Here are some of its key benefits explained in detail:
Performing daily forklift inspections helps identify potential issues—such as faulty brakes, worn tires, or fluid leaks—before they lead to accidents. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of injuries caused by mechanical failures. By catching issues early, organizations can prevent hazardous situations, protect workers, and foster a culture of safety.
Regularly inspecting forklifts helps detect wear and tear before it leads to costly breakdowns. Doing preventive maintenance based on checklist results helps equipment last longer and cuts down on unexpected repairs. This not only ensures operational efficiency but also lowers long-term maintenance expenses for the organization.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established several important requirements for forklift operation and safety. For instance, forklift operators are required to be trained and certified by OSHA before they can legally operate in the workplace. Using a standardized checklist before a forklift operation helps operators maintain a safety culture consistently and provide proper documentation of compliance.
Forklift-related incidents cause about 85 fatal accidents and 34,900 serious injuries annually in the US. Using a detailed checklist can help lower these numbers and make the workplace much safer. When forklifts are inspected regularly with a dedicated checklist, employees can operate them with greater confidence, knowing they are proven to be safe and functional.
Using a checklist establishes a consistent inspection routine, ensuring that no critical components are overlooked. It encourages accountability among operators and maintenance teams, as each inspection can be logged and tracked. Standardizing the process also makes training easier and more effective for new employees.
Toyota Material Handling (TMH)
"We saved more than 600 man-hours in our first year with SafetyCulture. I think any company that can get its return on investment back in year one is going to be pretty happy!"
The content of a forklift safety checklist should, at a minimum, include all essential parts of the forklift being checked and consider the type of inspection to be done involving the forklift. The most basic forklift checklist covers the following items:
Tires and rims
Engine oil, hydraulic oil, battery fluid, coolant level, and hydraulic levels
Possible leaks
Visible damage
Locking mechanism
Rams
Battery
Engine bay
Load plate
Overhead and backrest guards
Operator’s seat
Controls
Seat belt
Once the inspection is completed, forklift operators can generate a report to share with anyone relevant for documentation and proactively set tasks in case of any issues found. Here is an example of an accomplished forklift checklist:
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