Electric forklift preventive maintenance checklist template

Electric forklifts often face issues like battery degradation, worn-out tires, faulty brakes, and electrical system malfunctions. These problems usually stem from irregular maintenance or missed inspections, leading to costly downtime and safety risks. A proactive maintenance routine ensures these issues are caught early, extending the forklift’s lifespan and maintaining operational efficiency.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to equipment breakdowns, safety hazards, and non-compliance with regulations like OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.178. Businesses risk costly repairs, reduced productivity, and potential workplace accidents. In fact, unplanned downtime is significantly higher for companies relying on reactive maintenance compared to those using preventive strategies.

Trained technicians or certified maintenance personnel familiar with forklift systems should perform preventive maintenance. Operators can conduct daily pre-shift inspections, but in-depth checks for components like batteries, brakes, and hydraulics require professional expertise to ensure safety and compliance.

Digital tools like checklists streamline maintenance by standardizing inspections, tracking completed tasks, and generating real-time reports. They help identify recurring issues, ensure compliance, and reduce human error, making maintenance more efficient and reliable across distributed teams.