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 machinery. Completing regular forklift inspections and performing preventive maintenance regularly will help to ensure the safe and efficient use of the machine.
Daily Checklist
The daily checklist is an important tool in any forklift maintenance program. These checklists would help to document any and all possible 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 must complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift can not be utilized until the problem has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
Each year approximately 100 individuals are injured in forklift mishaps within the United States. Statistics show that around 20,000 individuals would be seriously injured as a result of a forklift mishap. This number translates to represent 54 people a day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. A lot of these mishaps could be prevented easily if the forklift had been properly maintained and serviced. 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 accident.
Items to be Serviced
In the owner's handbook of every equipment, the manufacturer would include a maintenance schedule. These schedules would vary greatly, depending on the manufacturer and the type of equipment. Each schedule will consist of a variety of basic items. Like for example, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil should be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels must be checked as well. Be sure to check hoses for any indications of cracking. Additional items include the electrical systems, the brakes and the transmission of the forklift.