Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Having a proper maintenance program for forklifts will help to increase the lifespan of the machine and is also a critical factor to the safe operation of the machine. Completing regular forklift check ups and performing preventive maintenance on a routine basis will help to ensure the safe and efficient 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 possible problems. 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. Drivers need to complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift is not to be put into service until the issue has been fixed.
Maintenance and Safety Go Hand-in-Hand
Each and every year around 100 people are injured in forklift mishaps within the United States. Statistics show that approximately 20,000 individuals would be seriously injured because of a forklift accident. This number represents 54 people a day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. Many of these mishaps could be easily prevented if the forklift had been properly serviced and maintained. In some circumstances, it might seem like a cost savings to skip or delay routine maintenance, however, these savings would pale in comparison to the cost of one mishap.
Things to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner guidebook would include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules would differ depending on each manufacturer and every type of forklift. Every schedule will consist of a variety of basic things. Like for instance, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil must be replaced periodically. Hydraulic levels should be inspected as well. Be sure to check hoses for any indications of cracking. Additional things include the electrical systems, the brakes and the transmission of the forklift.