Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts require a proper maintenance program to help increase the machine's lifespan and is an essential factor in allowing the machine to function effectively and safely. Completing forklift inspection on a regular basis and performing preventive maintenance regularly would 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 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. Operators must 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
Each year around 100 people are injured in forklift accidents in the USA. Statistics show that about 20,000 people will be injured seriously as a result of a forklift accident. 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 routine maintenance, however, these savings would pale in comparison to the cost of one accident.
Things to be Serviced
In the owner's guidebook of each equipment, the manufacturer will include a maintenance schedule. These schedules will differ greatly, depending on the manufacturer and the type of machinery. Each schedule will contain a variety of basic items. For example, in a combustion engine, the engine oil and the oil filter should be replaced sometimes. Hydraulic levels should be inspected also. Be certain to inspect hoses for any indications of cracking. Other things include the electrical systems, the brakes and the transmission of the forklift.