A Forklift Inspection Checklist is a critical tool for ensuring safety and meeting legal responsibilities in the workplace. Under Australian workplace health and safety laws, duty holders are required to ensure that forklifts (classified as “powered mobile plant”) are safe to operate and are regularly maintained and inspected. (laws and regulations)

✅ 1. Promotes Operator and Workplace Safety

• Forklifts operate in high-risk environments and carry heavy loads—mechanical failure or operator error can lead to serious injury or fatalities.

• Daily or pre-shift inspections help detect issues such as worn tyres, faulty brakes, steering faults, and fluid leaks.

• Inspections reduce the chance of accidents caused by tipping, collisions, or falling loads.

✅ 2. Required by Australian WHS Laws

• The Model WHS Act and WHS Regulations require PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that plant is safe.

• Clause 213 of the WHS Regulations specifically covers the management of risks associated with powered mobile plant, including maintenance and inspection.

• Regular inspections are considered a “reasonably practicable” measure to control risks under the law.

• Failure to comply may result in enforcement action by the relevant state or territory safety regulator (e.g., SafeWork NSW, WorkSafe QLD, NT WorkSafe, etc.).

✅ 3. Reduces Downtime and Costly Repairs

• Inspections help identify minor faults before they become major mechanical problems.

• Prevents unplanned breakdowns that delay operations.

• Extends the usable life of the forklift by ensuring timely maintenance and servicing.

✅ 4. Improves Accountability and Record-Keeping

• Inspection records demonstrate a proactive safety culture and can be used as evidence of compliance.

• Helps track recurring issues or wear-and-tear trends across your fleet.

• Can be performed using paper forms or digital checklists depending on the workplace system.

✅ 5. Protects Against Legal Liability

• In the event of an incident, inspection records can show that appropriate safety checks were done and the business took reasonable steps to prevent harm.

• Reduces exposure to legal penalties, workers compensation claims, and potential prosecution.

• Demonstrates compliance with the WHS Act and duty of care obligations.

✅ 6. Supports Productivity and Operational Efficiency

• Well-maintained forklifts operate more reliably and efficiently.

• Minimises disruptions and downtime from unexpected mechanical issues.

• Promotes confidence in forklift operators and other workers sharing the same space.

✅ Typical Items on an Australian Forklift Inspection Checklist

• Pre-start visual checks: Tyres, forks, mast, guards, safety decals, fluid leaks

• Operational checks: Horn, lights, seatbelt, steering, brakes, warning devices

• Hydraulic system: Lift/lower/tilt functions, hoses, and hydraulic oil levels

• Power source: Battery charge or fuel levels, connections, and safety devices

• General safety: Load rating plates, safety interlocks, reversing alarms