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 forklift inspection regularly and doing preventive maintenance regularly will help to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the equipment.
Daily Checklist
The daily checklist is an invaluable tool in any forklift maintenance program. These checklists will help to document any and all potential issues. 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. Drivers 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 problem has been fixed.
Maintenance and Safety Go Hand-in-Hand
Within the United States, there are around one hundred deaths related to forklift mishaps and statistic show that almost 20,000 individuals are seriously injured as well. This number represents 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 properly serviced and maintained. In some circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to delay or skip regular maintenance, although, these savings would pale in comparison to the cost of a single mishap.
Items to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner instruction manual would include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules would vary depending on each and every manufacturer and every type of forklift. Each schedule will consist of various basic things. Like for example, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil should be replaced periodically. Hydraulic levels would need to be checked also. Be sure to check hoses for any signs of cracking. Other things involve the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.