Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts need a proper maintenance program to help increase the machine's lifespan and is an important factor in allowing the machinery to function safely and effectively. Completing forklift check ups on a regular basis and doing preventive maintenance regularly will help to ensure the efficient and safe use of the machinery.
Daily Checklist
In any forklift maintenance program, the daily checklist is an important tool to have. These checklists would document any 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 have to complete the inspection from the beginning 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
Within the United States, there are about one hundred deaths related to forklift accidents and statistic show that almost 20,000 individuals are seriously injured as well. This number represents 54 people a day, 7 days a week, for the entire year. A lot of these mishaps can be prevented easily if the forklift had been correctly serviced and maintained. In several circumstances, it might seem like a cost savings to delay or skip regular maintenance, although, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of a single mishap.
Items to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner handbook will include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules would differ depending on each manufacturer and every type of forklift. Every schedule would contain a variety of basic items. For example, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil must be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels must be checked too. Be certain to check hoses for any signs of cracking. Additional items involve the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.