OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(q)
Daily forklift inspections: what OSHA asks for, and the record to keep
A plain-language guide for warehouse and yard supervisors, with a free per-shift checklist in English and Spanish.
Get the forklift checklistAt a glance
- How often
- Before use, at least daily; after each shift for round-the-clock operation
- If something is wrong
- Remove the truck from service until it is repaired
- Checklist format
- OSHA does not require a specific checklist; the employer must make sure trucks are properly examined
- Operator evaluation
- At least once every three years, 1910.178(l)(4)(iii)
- Free plan — no credit card needed
- Anyone can fill a checklist by scanning a QR code — no app, no login
- No per-respondent fees
- English and Spanish, fully supported
What the rule says
OSHA Powered Industrial Trucks, 29 CFR 1910.178(q)
Forklifts must be examined before being placed in service, at least daily, and after each shift when used around the clock. A truck that isn't in safe operating condition must be removed from service until it is repaired by authorized personnel.
Sources: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 · OSHA interpretation letter, July 28, 2004
What an inspector will ask to see
- How do you know each truck was checked before use today?
- Who checked it, and on which shift?
- What happened to the last truck that failed a check?
- How do your Spanish-speaking operators complete the check?
How to do it with checklists
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Give every truck its own QR code
One label per truck on the overhead guard. Every label opens the same checklist with that truck's number already filled in, so each record lands under the right truck.
Template: Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection (US)
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Make the check part of shift start
Post the English or Spanish version of the checklist, or both. Every check is required, so a check can't be submitted half done.
Template: Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection (US)
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Record what failed, and add a signature
A failed check asks what's wrong, and the outcome records whether the truck was removed from service. Add an initials or signature field so operators sign their check.
Template: Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection (US)
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Keep the charging area on your list
Battery charging areas have their own rules under 1910.178(g). Build a short weekly check for it from the same template editor.
What your record looks like on inspection day
Example: Truck 7, second shift
- OKBrakes and parking brake
- IssueForks, chains and mastBent fork tip, photo attached. Truck tagged out.
- FixedForks, chains and mastFork replaced by maintenance, next day 7:40 am
Common questions
Does OSHA require a written forklift checklist?
OSHA says there is no specific requirement that a checklist be used, but the employer is responsible for making sure trucks are properly examined. A dated record per truck and shift is the simplest way to show that.
Can operators use their own phones?
Yes. Scanning the QR code opens the checklist in the browser. Operators don't need an app or an account, and you can still see who checked what.
What about operators who read Spanish better than English?
The template comes in English and Spanish, and the screens around it (buttons, messages, errors) are in both languages too. Post whichever version your crew reads, or both.
Do you work offline?
Not yet. The phone needs a signal or Wi-Fi to submit. Keep the printable version for dead zones.
Get the forklift checklist
The daily pre-use checklist as a printable PDF and a QR link, in English and Spanish.
Included templates
- Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection (US)
Your kit is on its way
Look for an email with the checklist. Open the QR link on your phone to try it like an operator would.
Questions? Talk to a person.
Tell us what you inspect and how often. We'll tell you honestly whether this fits.
Thanks — we got it.
We'll get back to you soon.