Daily Checks – What to Look for.

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All Trucks

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Obvious Leaks. Check the floor, beside and under the truck.

Hydraulic Fluid Level. Check the level in the reservoir.

Mast and Carriage. Visually check for any damage or foreign items. Check also for appropriate lubrication.

Chains and Fixing Bolts. Visually check for damaged links, obvious stretching and appropriate lubrication. Visually check the fixing bolts for any sign of damage.

Forks. Visually check for any sign of cracks, especially at the heels, or any other sign of damage or excess wear. Check securing pins.

Backrest/Extension. Visually check for damage or debris. Bent or otherwise damaged metal is weakened and may be dangerous.

Tyres/Wheels/Nuts. Check all tyres for obvious damage, including cuts and tread wear. Check pneumatic tyres for the correct pressure. Check wheels for damage, especially to the rims, and check that wheel nuts are tight.
 

Seat and Seat Belt. Check that the seat is correctly fixed to the truck and not loose or damaged. Check that the seat belt or other restraint is properly secure and functions correctly.
 

Steering. Check the steering feels normal and that there is no undue play or unusual movement.
 

Service Brakes. Check the brakes feel normal and work efficiently.
 

Parking Brake. Check the parking brake works efficiently and releases correctly.

Operating Controls. Check that all foot and hand controls operate correctly and are not obstructed in any way.
 

Operating System. If the truck is fitted with computerised systems check to ensure that they have been initialised and are working correctly.
 

Warning Lights. Check for the correct operation of all warning lights. If a light stays on, and you are not sure of its meaning, check the user manual or seek further advice. Do not use the truck with a warning light illuminated if you do not know it is still safe!

Gauges/Instruments. Check that all gauges and other instruments are working correctly.

Lights/Beacon. Check for correct operation.

Horn. Check for correct operation.
 

Safety Guards and Covers. Check all are properly fastened and secured. A flapping cover can be a hazard to your colleagues as well as yourself.
 

Bodywork. Visually check around the vehicle. Damaged bodywork may indicate other problem areas on the truck. Check the areas carefully. Damaged bodywork may indicate damage to racking or other equipment. Report what you find so that your supervisor can check it out.
 

Electric

Electrolyte Levels. Check the electrolyte levels of all cells.
 

Cable Connections. Check they are clean and properly secure.
 

General Cleanliness. Ensure the battery area is clean and clear from debris.
 

Battery Security. Ensure the batteries are secure within their compartment and that any protective hatches are properly closed.
 

Other Checks
Other items may need to be checked. These may be listed on a separate sheet. Discuss this with your supervisor.

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Remember, if you are not sure about anything at all, ask your supervisor.

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