# Complete Guide to Pre-Operation Safety Inspection Procedures for Rough Terrain Forklifts

At engineering operation sites, rough-terrain forklifts serve as special equipment, and their safe operation directly relates to the safety of personnel and property. According to statistics, over 60% of forklift accidents stem from inadequate safety inspections. This article will systematically introduce the standard safety inspection procedures before using rough-terrain forklifts, helping operators establish scientific safety inspection habits. I. Visual Inspection (5-Minute Basic Check) Frame Structure Inspection Check the frame for obvious deformation or cracks (focus on welded areas); confirm that protective devices (ROPS/FOPS) are intact; verify that accessories such as rearview mirrors and lights are complete. Travel System Inspection Check tire/track wear (tread depth no less than 5mm); test tire pressure (within manufacturer's specified value ±10%); check wheel hub bolt tightening (torque meets standards). Attachment Inspection Check forks for cracks or deformation (maximum bending < 3mm); verify locking mechanism functions properly; ensure attachment connecting pins and safety devices are intact. II. Fluid System Inspection (3-Minute Key Items) Fluid Level Inspection Engine oil (check 10 minutes after shutdown); hydraulic oil (between scale marks at oil temperature of 40°C); coolant (expansion tank level between MAX-MIN). Leak Inspection No oil stains under the engine; no leaks at hydraulic hose connections; no signs of oil leakage from the transmission. III. Functional Testing (8-Minute Core Check) Power System Test Cold start test (continuous cranking no more than 10 seconds); idle operation (speed fluctuation < ±50rpm); exhaust color observation (no abnormal black/blue smoke). Hydraulic System Test Lift/lower speed test (0.5-0.7m/s at full load); no creeping in hydraulic cylinders; pressure gauge readings normal (refer to equipment nameplate). Brake System Test Parking brake slope test (maintains position on 15° slope for 5 minutes); service brake distance test (braking distance < 5m at 20km/h); brake pedal free travel (10-15mm). IV. Safety Device Verification (4-Minute Mandatory Check) Warning System Test Reverse alarm volume ≥ 87dB; warning lights function properly; no fault codes displayed on the instrument panel. Protective Device Inspection Seat belt locking function normal; emergency shutdown switch effective; rollover protective structure free of structural damage. Operational Control System Steering wheel free play < 15°; all control levers return flexibly; no abnormal pedal travel. V. Environmental Assessment (2-Minute On-Site Confirmation) Work Area Inspection Ground load-bearing capacity evaluation (≥ 1.5 times equipment ground contact pressure); slope confirmation (not exceeding equipment's maximum climbing capability); identify obstacles and hazard sources. Weather Condition Confirmation Visibility > 50 meters; wind speed < 10m/s (tracked models < 15m/s); extreme temperature warning (-25°C to +45°C). VI. Inspection Records and Handling Standardized Documentation Use the "Daily Inspection Checklist" to record 28 indicators; fill out the "Equipment Anomaly Report" when abnormalities are found; sign to confirm inspection results. Tiered Problem Handling General issues (e.g., non-functioning lights) to be resolved within 24 hours; serious issues (e.g., brake failure) require immediate shutdown and repair reporting; safety hazards must be marked with warning signs. Professional Recommendation: Establish the "Three No Principles" — no start without complete inspection, no operation without hazard elimination, no use without reporting abnormalities. After a logistics park implemented this standard, forklift accident rates dropped by 72%. It is recommended to reserve 15-20 minutes before each operation for systematic inspection — this 20-minute investment may prevent 80% of potential accidents. By strictly implementing this inspection procedure, rough-terrain forklifts can be ensured to remain in optimal working condition at all times. Remember: safety is not a coincidence, but the inevitable result of strictly enforcing inspection protocols. Standardized inspections not only safeguard operational safety but also extend equipment service life by over 30%, making them the most economical investment in equipment management.