A forklift pre start checklist is a quick, essential inspection a forklift operator must complete before every shift. It's a simple process designed to identify any faults or issues with the machine to make sure it's safe to operate.

Why Is a Forklift Pre Start Checklist So Important?

Forklift safety is serious business. Taking a few minutes to do a pre start check can save you from big problems down the road. It’s not just a good idea, it’s a crucial step that:

✔️ Keeps Everyone Safe

✔️ Avoids Costly Repairs

✔️ Meets Legal Compliance

The Essential Forklift Pre Start Checklist

Your daily check should be broken down into two quick parts: a walk around inspection and an in cab check once you’re sat down.

🚶👀 The Walkaround Before Starting the Engine 👀 🚶

Before you even climb into the cab, do a quick visual check of the entire machine.

📋✔ Check for Leaks
Look under the forklift for any signs of leaking oil, hydraulic fluid, or coolant.

📋✔ Inspect the Tyres
Make sure they're properly inflated and look for any deep cuts, cracks, or damage.

📋✔ Check the Forks
Inspect the forks for any cracks, bends, or uneven wear. Also, check the backrest and mast for any damage.

📋✔ Look for Loose Parts
Give the forklift a quick once over to make sure all bolts, guards, and other components are in place and secure.

📋✔ Check the Seatbelt
Make sure the seatbelt is in good condition and buckles securely.

🪑👀 The In-Cab Checks After Starting the Engine 👀🪑

Now, get in the driver's seat and check the controls.

🛑✔ Test the Brakes
Check both the foot brake and the parking brake to ensure they work correctly.

📢✔ Check the Horn
Give the horn a quick honk to make sure it's working.

💡✔ Test the Lights
Make sure all headlights, brake lights, and warning lights are working.

🏗️✔ Check the Hydraulics
Raise and lower the forks a few times to make sure the mast and hydraulic system are operating smoothly.

⏲✔ Confirm the Gauges
Look at the fuel, battery, and oil gauges to ensure everything is at a safe level.

⚠️ Found a Problem? Here's What to Do ⚠️

Safety comes first! If you find any issue during your pre start check, no matter how small, don’t operate the forklift.

1️⃣ Tag the machine so no one else uses it.

2️⃣ Report the problem to your supervisor or the maintenance team immediately.

3️⃣ Do not use the forklift until the issue has been inspected and properly fixed.

Forklogic - Safe Lifts, Every Shift

By taking a few minutes each day to complete this simple checklist, you can help keep everyone on the job site safe and ensure your forklift equipment stays in top nick. 

If you need new parts, a service check, or a brand new forklift, our Forklogic team is ready to help on 1300 360 936.

For further information, check out the relevant NSW / QLD forklift safety downloads:

NSW Safework - Forklift Safety Fact Sheet
QLD Workplace H&S - Forklift Safety for Workers