title = "Forklift Pre-Use Inspection and Scheduled Maintenance"

content = """
Forklifts (powered industrial trucks) are essential material handling equipment at Ridgecrest Metalworks for moving raw material, work-in-progress, and finished goods. Forklifts are also one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and serious injuries in manufacturing. Pre-use inspection and scheduled maintenance are mandatory requirements under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178.

Operator pre-use inspection: Before operating any forklift, the operator must complete a documented pre-use (pre-shift) inspection. The inspection covers:

- Forks: Check for cracks, bends, and wear at the heel. Forks with blade tip height difference exceeding 3 % of the fork blade length are removed from service. Check the locking pins and carriage stops are secure.
- Mast, carriage, and lift chains: Inspect for cracks, distortion, and damage. Check lift chains for stretch (elongation) and wear; chains should be lubricated and free of corrosion. Check mast rollers for wear.
- Hydraulics: Check for leaks at cylinders, hoses, and fittings. Check hydraulic fluid level. Operate the lift and tilt functions through full range; verify smooth operation and that the mast holds load without drift.
- Tires: Check for cuts, chunking, embedded material, and correct inflation (pneumatic tires) or visible deformation (solid tires). Worn or damaged tires affect stability.
- Brakes: Test the service brake for stopping effectiveness; test the parking brake for holding on a grade.
- Steering: Check for excessive free play.
- Lights and warning devices: Test horn, backup alarm, and any working lights.
- Battery (electric forklifts): Check electrolyte level (flooded lead acid) or battery charge state; check for damaged cables and connectors.
- LPG/propane (gas forklifts): Check cylinder connection and hose condition; no fuel leaks.

The completed checklist is signed by the operator. Any deficiency that affects safety or function results in the forklift being taken out of service and tagged until repaired.

Scheduled maintenance: Manufacturer-specified PM includes engine oil and filter, transmission fluid, differential and drive axle oil, coolant, hydraulic filter, fuel filter, and brake inspection at defined hour intervals (typically 250, 500, and 1000 hours). Annual safety inspection by a qualified forklift mechanic covers brake adjustment, mast bearing wear, overhead guard integrity, and safety device function. Records of all services are maintained on the forklift maintenance log.
"""

version = "0.0.1"
