Regardless whether you have a brand new forklift fleet or second-hand forklifts, your machine has to be maintained to ensure productivity and safety. Careless forklift operation can lead to additional expenses due to damage and abuse. There are simple ways to identify operator practices that indirectly contribute to expenses associated to the improper operation of Caterpillar forklifts or lift trucks. The following suggestions would truly help you lower operating costs while ensuring a long life for your machinery.
Causes Of Facility and Forklift Damage
Incorrect Forklifts. Choosing the right lift truck equipment for the application is essential for efficient and safe forklift performance. One of the most common mistakes is utilizing the wrong type of forklift or alternatives for the specific job. Machinery can suffer premature wear and tear. Components can be subject to failure. Make certain that the lift truck is fitted with the correct tires and that they are not worn.
Incorrect Forklift Operating Practices. Improper forklift operating practices are a common cause of impact damage. Damage to machine, facilities or product can happen while navigating around things. A congested work area lends itself to impacts. For instance, pushing pallets, known as "Bulldozing", could damage the transmission and wear tires.
Unsafe Forklift Lifting and Speeding. Wrong lifting practices can result in equipment damage and personal injury. Common mistakes consist of traveling too fast and lifting too high. A load which is too heavy can cause the forklift to tip over. The operator should make sure that the forks are level.
Poor Floor Conditions. Debris and obstructions on the floor are the most common cause of forklift damage. If wood, twine, plastic or banding gets into the engine compartment, the cooling system could be compromised. The result could be engine failure or even fire.
Axle or radiator damage is one more common consequence of driving over debris.
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