Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Having a proper maintenance program for forklifts will help to increase the lifespan of the machinery and is also a vital factor to the safe operation of the machine. Completing forklift inspection on a regular basis and doing preventive maintenance regularly will help to guarantee the efficient and safe operation 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 problems. They are required by the OSHA or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The daily checklists can also be audited by OSHA during any routine inspection. Drivers need to complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major issues are found, the forklift is not to be put into service until the issue has been fixed.
Maintenance and Safety Go Hand-in-Hand
In the US, there are roughly one hundred deaths related to forklift mishaps and statistic show that nearly 20,000 individuals are seriously injured as well. This number represents 54 people per day, 7 days a week, for the entire year. Many of these mishaps can be prevented easily if the forklift had been properly maintained and serviced. In several circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to delay or skip routine maintenance, however, these savings would pale in comparison to the cost of a single mishap.
Things to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner handbook will include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will differ depending on every manufacturer and each type of forklift. Every schedule would consist of various basic things. For example, in a combustion engine, the engine oil and the oil filter should be replaced periodically. Hydraulic levels must be checked as well. Be sure to check hoses for any signs of cracking. Other things involve the electrical systems, the brakes and the transmission of the forklift.