Forklift daily inspection checklist

OSHA requires powered industrial trucks to be examined at least daily before use, or after each shift when the truck is used around the clock, and a truck found unsafe must come out of service. This checklist is that examination on one page: walk-around, operational checks, and the tag-out decision.

CompanyJobsiteDate

Forklift daily inspection checklist

Company: ____________

Jobsite: ____________

Date: ____________

Truck details

	Forklift ID / unit number: ____________	N/A · Action
	Operator (certified): ____________	N/A · Action
	Hour meter reading: ____________	N/A · Action

Walk-around (power off)

	Forks: no cracks, bends, or excessive heel wear	N/A · Action
	Mast, chains, and hoses: no damage or leaks	N/A · Action
	Tires and wheels in usable condition	N/A · Action
	Overhead guard and load backrest secure	N/A · Action
	Data plate present and legible	N/A · Action
	Fluid levels checked; no leaks under the truck	N/A · Action
	Battery or LP tank secured and connections good	N/A · Action

Operational (power on)

	Service brake, parking brake, and inching control work	N/A · Action
	Steering responds correctly	N/A · Action
	Lift, lower, and tilt controls operate smoothly	N/A · Action
	Horn, backup alarm, and lights work	N/A · Action
	Seat belt intact and working	N/A · Action
	Gauges and warning lights normal	N/A · Action

Decision

	Truck SAFE for service	N/A · Action
	Truck UNSAFE: remove from service, tag it, and report to: ____________	N/A · Action
	Defects noted: ____________	N/A · Action

Completed by: ____________________

Signature: ____________________

tailgatedocs.com · Free printable form. Not legal advice; adapt to your jobsite.

Common questions

▸Is a daily forklift inspection actually required?

Yes. OSHA requires powered industrial trucks to be examined at least daily before being placed in service, or after each shift when used around the clock. A truck found to need repair or unsafe in any way must be taken out of service.

▸Does the inspection have to be documented?

OSHA requires the examination itself; documenting it is how you prove it happened, and most sites, insurers, and prequal reviewers expect the written record. Keep completed checklists with your equipment records.

Forklift operations belong in your written safety program with training and inspection procedures. Generate one for $149.

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