Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Safety Assessment Practice Test

Which of the following should be done before starting a forklift?

1. Conduct a visual inspection

2. Check if it's connected to power

3. Disable alarms

4. Clear the area of all workers

The correct answer is: Conduct a visual inspection

Conducting a visual inspection before starting a forklift is a crucial step in ensuring safety and operational efficiency. This inspection involves checking various parts of the forklift, including the brakes, steering, lights, and forks, to ensure they are functioning properly and are in good condition. By identifying any potential issues beforehand, operators can prevent accidents and ensure the equipment is safe to use. This practice aligns with standard safety protocols, which emphasize the importance of equipment checks to maintain a safe working environment. In comparison, other options may have specific contexts where they could be relevant, but they do not represent the foundational safety practice of inspecting the equipment itself. For example, while clearing the area of all workers is important for safety, it is usually part of the operational procedures after the equipment has been ensured safe to operate. Checking for power connections and disabling alarms are not standard practices before starting operation—they may even pose safety risks if mismanaged. Therefore, the visual inspection stands out as the essential first step in forklift operation safety protocols.