Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Having a proper maintenance program for forklifts would help to increase the lifespan of the equipment and is also a vital factor to the safe use of the machine. Completing forklift check ups regularly and doing preventive maintenance on a regular basis would help to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the machinery.
Daily Checklist
The daily checklist is an invaluable tool in any forklift maintenance program. These checklists will help to document any and all 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 start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift can not be used until the problem has been fixed.
Maintenance and Safety Go Hand-in-Hand
In the US, there are about 100 deaths related to forklift mishaps and statistic show that nearly 20,000 people are seriously injured as well. This number represents 54 people per day, 7 days a week, for the entire year. A lot of these mishaps can be prevented easily if the forklift had been correctly maintained and serviced. In some circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to delay or skip routine maintenance, however, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of one accident.
Items to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner guidebook would include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will vary depending on every manufacturer and each type of forklift. Each schedule would contain a variety of basic items. Like for instance, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil should be replaced sometimes. Hydraulic levels will have to be checked too. Be sure to check hoses for any signs of cracking. Additional items involve the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.