Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Having a proper maintenance program for forklifts would help to increase the lifespan of the equipment and is also a critical factor to the safe use of the equipment. Completing forklift inspection regularly and performing preventive maintenance regularly would help to guarantee the safe and efficient operation of the machinery.
Daily Checklist
The daily checklist is an important tool in any forklift maintenance program. These checklists will help to document any and all possible issues. 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. Drivers should complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift can not be used until the issue has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
In the US, there are around 100 deaths related to forklift mishaps and statistic show that almost 20,000 people are seriously injured as well. This number translates to represent 54 individuals a day, 7 days a week, for the entire year. A lot of these mishaps could be prevented easily if the forklift had been correctly serviced and maintained. In some circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to skip or delay regular maintenance, however, these savings would pale in comparison to the cost of one mishap.
Items to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner manual will include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will vary depending on each and every manufacturer and each kind 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 also. Be certain to inspect hoses for any indications of cracking. Other things include the transmission, the electrical systems and the brakes of the forklift.