Recommended Practices for Instruments

GISO 3650 requires drivers of industrial equipment to check the vehicle at the beginning of each shift to make sure it is found to be safe. Drivers should follow OSHA recommended practices for checking instruments, as follows:

• Turn on the forklift, and check all warning indicators on the dashboard.
• Never operate a forklift with a warning light or gauge signaling an unsafe condition.
• Do not attempt a repair unless authorized to do so.
• Report any abnormality to your supervisor.
• Check for leaks. Clean up any spills, or mark the hazard area until it can be cleaned.
• Only trained and authorized personnel may service a forklift.
• Allow an overheated forklift to cool down before removing the radiator cap. When removing the cap, wear leather gloves and eye protection and open the cap slightly to check for stored pressure before completely removing the cap.
• Check the fuel level during daily inspections. GISO 3650 prohibits the use of equipment with fuel leaks.
• Refuel only in designated areas. Clean up any spills, or mark the hazard area until it can be cleaned.
• Log the hours of use daily.
• Do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended hours in service.
• Properly maintain vehicles according to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.
• Return to the battery recharging area if the battery gauge is low.
• Recharge the battery only if you are trained and authorized to do so.

To learn more about Industrial Equipment visit our Cal/OSHA Industrial Equipment, Lift Trucks and Tractors Online Training web page.