What is an essential safety practice before operating a forklift?

Conducting a pre-operation inspection is vital for ensuring the safe operation of a forklift. This practice involves a thorough check of the forklift's fundamental components, such as brakes, lights, horns, and fluid levels, to confirm that everything is functioning correctly before use. By identifying any potential mechanical issues in advance, operators can prevent accidents caused by equipment failure during operation, thereby significantly enhancing workplace safety.

While checking the load's appearance, wearing a hard hat, and ensuring clear pathways are all important safety measures, they do not address the critical need to verify that the forklift itself is safe to operate. A pre-operation inspection directly mitigates risks associated with equipment malfunctions and is a foundational aspect of safe forklift operation.