Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts need a proper maintenance program to help increase the equipments lifespan and is an important factor in allowing the machine to function effectively and safely. Completing regular forklift inspections and performing preventive maintenance on a regular basis will help to guarantee the safe and efficient use of the machine.
Daily Checklist
In any forklift maintenance program, the daily checklist is an invaluable tool to have. These checklists would document any possible issues. 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 are required to complete the inspection from the beginning of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift can not be used until the issue has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
In the United States, there are around 100 deaths related to forklift accidents and statistic show that almost 20,000 individuals are seriously injured as well. This number translates to represent 54 people a day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. Many of these accidents could be easily prevented if the forklift had been correctly maintained and serviced. In some circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to skip or delay regular maintenance, although, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of a single accident.
Items to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner manual would include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will vary depending on every manufacturer and each kind of forklift. Every schedule will contain a variety of basic items. Like for instance, in a combustion engine, the engine oil and the oil filter should be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels must be inspected also. Be sure to inspect hoses for any indications of cracking. Additional items include the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.