Some companies choose to rent rather than buy a forklift. Still, it’s important to make sure that your renting safe equipment.

OSHA requires forklift operators to inspect their equipment daily. The inspection must take place at the start of a shift. The operators are responsible for the check before using a forklift for service.

Also, they must report any maintenance issues to management. However, it’s in your—and your workers—best interests to perform a safety check before you rent or buy a forklift in Houston.

For a must-have checklist for forklift rental service in Houston, continue reading.

Why Inspection Matters

An industrial forklift is an excellent tool for increasing productivity. However, consider what might go wrong using an uninspected forklift.

For instance, imagine a worker lifting a crate to a high shelf. Suddenly, the forklift shuts down.

Now, you must rally a team to remove the crate from the forklift. If you’re lucky, you won’t have to open the crate and remove the items from the container. Next, you’ll have to contend with moving the forklift for maintenance.

You could have avoided this scenario with a safety inspection. Now, your crew has wasted time and money. What’s worse, the failed forklift has most likely created a safety hazard.

Fortunately, you can avoid this outcome. It’s as easy as falling OSHA recommendations.

Before each shift, you’ll need to run a safety check. For instance, you’ll check for general wear and tear. You’ll also check for various leaks.

Also, you’ll need to check the basic functions of the forklift. For instance, make sure that the headlights turn on and the horn works.

It’s a good idea to develop a pre-shift checklist. This way, operators will know what they need to inspect.

A pre-shift checklist is an excellent way to put OSHA standards in action. However, you can also use that checklist as a partial guideline before you rent heavy equipment.

Forklift Rental Service Safety Inspection

There are two parts to an effective daily forklift safety check. It includes:

1. A walk-around inspection
2. A seated inspection

During the inspection, check various parts of the forklift. For instance, you’ll need to make sure the tires are in good condition.

Check the tires for slashes and cuts. If needed, you should also check the air pressure of the tires.

You’ll also need to check the belts, chains, and hoses. Inspect these devices for excessive wear.

Keep an eye out for cracks, leaks, or pinholes. As you perform the inspection, remember not to place your fingers inside of the forklift mast.

Also, you’ll need to check the forklift’s hydraulic fluid. Make sure there’s enough fluid and that the system isn’t leaking.

Next, check the engine or power source of the forklift. Make sure that there’s enough gas or power for a full shift.

Now, you can do a visual inspection of the backrest, forks, mast, and overhead guard. Search for cracks, dents, damaged welds, or other structural problems.

These are a few of the things that you’ll need to check. For more information about forklift safety, check out OSHA’s take on pre-operation inspection.

Final Points for Inspection

When renting a forklift in Houston, there are other things that you should consider. For instance, you need to know the forklift’s operating hours. This information will tell you how many hours operators have used the equipment.

The operating hours of a forklift are very important. For instance, imagine two identical forklifts.

One may have many hours and is close to the end of its life cycle. However, the other one may have more than enough hours left for the term of your rental.

You also want to review the forklift’s maintenance history. You should look for a forklift that’s been taken care of properly. A well-maintained forklift is more likely to do its job without having mechanical problems.

Also, you want to check the maintenance history for signs of a persistent mechanical problem. For instance, a forklift may prove problematic if it’s needed the same repair several times.

Finally, you want to consider the reputation of your dealer. For instance, look for a heavy equipment dealer that has a reputation for taking care of their equipment.

A dealer that keeps detailed maintenance records is more likely to fall into this category. They’re also more likely to know the condition of the forklift that you plan to rent.

Protect Your Workers and Your Business

OSHA forklift inspection is a federal law. Your workers must perform this inspection before their shifts. Also, they must complete the check every day.

In some instances, you may use a forklift around-the-clock. If so, operators must also inspect their forklift after their shifts.

Again, they’ll need to report any problems to a supervisor right away. This rule highlights the importance of forklift inspection—and working with a reputable heavy equipment supplier. By renting from a reputable heavy equipment supplier, you’ll rule out the likelihood of sourcing a faulty forklift.

Safe Forklift Rental in Houston

Now you know more about safe forklift rental service in Houston. What you need now is a reputable heavy equipment dealer.

Large Lift Trucks is a locally owned and operated heavy equipment company. We rent, sell, and service a wide range of equipment for your industrial needs. Best of all, we offer the equipment that you need at competitive prices.

For more than 40 years, we’ve provided equipment for businesses in and around Houston, Texas. During those years, we’ve learned a lot along the way. As a result, we’re highly qualified to meet your heavy equipment needs.

Please feel free the browse our heavy equipment inventory. If you have questions, you can reach a Large Lift Trucks expert at (866) 918-3372 or connect with us online.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR FORKLIFT INVENTORY

Common Questions About Forklift Rental Services

Why is a pre-rental inspection important for forklifts?

A pre-rental inspection ensures the forklift is safe and operational, preventing potential accidents and equipment failure during use.

What should be included in a forklift safety inspection checklist?

The checklist should include a walk-around and seated inspection, checking for tire condition, leaks, hydraulic fluid levels, engine power source, and structural integrity.

How can I ensure a forklift rental meets my operational needs?

Consider the forklift’s operating hours, maintenance history, and choose a reputable dealer with a good track record of maintaining their equipment.

What are the insurance requirements when renting a forklift?

You may need to have liability insurance that covers rental equipment and possibly additional insurance depending on the rental company’s policy.