Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts need a proper maintenance program to help increase the equipments lifespan and is an important factor in allowing the machine to run safely and effectively. Completing forklift inspection on a regular basis and performing preventive maintenance regularly would help to guarantee the efficient and safe use of the machine.
Daily Checklist
The daily checklist is an important tool in any forklift maintenance program. These checklists will help to document any and all potential issues. They are required by the OSHA or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The daily checklists could also be audited by OSHA during any routine inspection. Operators have to complete the inspection from the beginning of their shift. If any major issues are found, the forklift is not to be put into service until the issue has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
Each and every year around 100 people are injured in forklift mishaps within the United States. Statistics show that around 20,000 people will be seriously injured as a result of a forklift accident. This number translates to represent 54 people a day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. Many of these accidents can be prevented easily if the forklift had been properly serviced and maintained. In several circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to delay or skip regular maintenance, although, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of one accident.
Things to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner guidebook will include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will vary depending on each manufacturer and each model of forklift. Every schedule would contain a variety of basic items. For instance, in a combustion engine, the engine oil and the oil filter must be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels must be inspected too. Be sure to inspect hoses for any signs of cracking. Other items include the electrical systems, the brakes and the transmission of the forklift.