Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Having a proper maintenance program for forklifts would help to increase the lifespan of the machine and is also a critical factor to the safe use of the equipment. Completing forklift check ups on a regular basis and performing preventive maintenance on a regular basis will help to ensure 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 Occupational Safety and Health Administration or the OSHA. The daily checklists can also be audited by OSHA during any routine inspection. Operators have 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 problem has been fixed.
Maintenance and Safety Go Hand-in-Hand
In the US, there are roughly 100 deaths related to forklift accidents and statistic show that almost 20,000 individuals are seriously injured too. This number translates to represent 54 individuals per day, 7 days a week, for the entire year. A lot of these accidents can be prevented easily if the forklift had been correctly maintained and serviced. In some circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to skip or delay regular maintenance, however, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of a single accident.
Things to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner handbook would include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules would vary depending on every manufacturer and each type of forklift. Every schedule will contain various basic things. Like for example, in a combustion engine, the engine oil and the oil filter must be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels should be checked too. Be certain to check hoses for any indications of cracking. Additional items involve the electrical systems, the brakes and the transmission of the forklift.