Forklift certification Certification Forklift certification Pre-Operation Inspections 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When must a pre-operation inspection of a forklift be performed?
- Once a week
- At the start of each shift before use (Correct answer)
- Only after a repair
- Once a month
Correct answer: At the start of each shift before use
OSHA requires a forklift to be examined at least daily, or before each shift when used around the clock.
Question 2: During a pre-shift check, a leaking hydraulic hose is discovered. What should the operator do?
- Top off the fluid and keep working
- Tag the truck out of service and report it (Correct answer)
- Wrap tape around the hose
- Use it only for light loads
Correct answer: Tag the truck out of service and report it
A leaking hydraulic line is a defect that makes the truck unsafe, so it must be removed from service until repaired.
Question 3: Which part of the pre-operation inspection is done with the engine OFF?
- Testing the horn
- Checking fluid levels and tires (Correct answer)
- Testing the brakes
- Checking the steering
Correct answer: Checking fluid levels and tires
Visual checks like fluid levels, tires, forks, and leaks are performed during the engine-off portion of the inspection.
Question 4: What condition of the forks would make a forklift unsafe to operate?
- Slightly dusty surface
- Visible cracks or bends (Correct answer)
- Faded paint
- A manufacturer's stamp
Correct answer: Visible cracks or bends
Cracks, bends, or excessive wear on the forks compromise load capacity and safety.
Question 5: Why should the operator check tire condition before use?
- To improve fuel economy only
- Because worn or damaged tires affect stability and traction (Correct answer)
- To make the truck look better
- It is not required
Correct answer: Because worn or damaged tires affect stability and traction
Damaged or worn tires reduce stability and can lead to tip-overs or loss of control.
Question 6: What should be verified about the data plate during inspection?
- That it is present and legible (Correct answer)
- That it is painted over
- That it is removed for cleaning
- That it lists the operator's name
Correct answer: That it is present and legible
The data (capacity) plate must be present and readable so the operator knows the truck's rated capacity.
Question 7: If the horn does not work during the operational check, the operator should:
- Operate anyway and shout warnings
- Remove the truck from service until repaired (Correct answer)
- Only use it outdoors
- Ignore it if visibility is good
Correct answer: Remove the truck from service until repaired
A non-working horn is a safety defect; the truck should be taken out of service until fixed.
