Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts need a proper maintenance program to help increase the equipments lifespan and is an essential factor in allowing the machine to run effectively and safely. Completing forklift inspection regularly and doing preventive maintenance regularly will help to guarantee the safe and efficient use of the machine.
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 Occupational Safety and Health Administration or the OSHA. The daily checklists can also be audited by OSHA during any routine inspection. Drivers are required 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 problem has been fixed.
Maintenance and Safety Go Hand-in-Hand
Within the United States, there are roughly 100 deaths related to forklift mishaps and statistic show that almost 20,000 individuals are seriously injured as well. This number represents 54 people per day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. Many of these mishaps can be easily prevented if the forklift had been correctly maintained and serviced. In some circumstances, it might seem like a cost savings to skip or delay routine maintenance, although, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of one mishap.
Items to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner instruction manual will include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will differ depending on each manufacturer and every model of forklift. Every schedule will consist of various basic items. For example, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil must be replaced sometimes. Hydraulic levels would need to be inspected as well. Be certain to check hoses for any indications of cracking. Additional things involve the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.