Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts need a proper maintenance program to help increase the machine's lifespan and is an essential factor in allowing the machinery to function effectively and safely. Completing regular forklift check ups and doing preventive maintenance regularly 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 possible problems. 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 have to complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift could not be utilized until the issue has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
Every year about 100 people are injured in forklift accidents within the United States. Statistics show that around 20,000 individuals will be injured seriously as a result of a forklift mishap. This number represents 54 people a day, 7 days a week, for the entire year. A lot of these accidents could be easily prevented if the forklift had been properly maintained and serviced. In some circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to delay or skip regular maintenance, however, these savings would pale in comparison to the cost of a single accident.
Items to be Serviced
In the owner's manual of each equipment, the manufacturer will include a maintenance schedule. These schedules will differ greatly, depending on the manufacturer and the type of machine. Each schedule would consist of various basic things. Like for example, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil will have to be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels should be checked as well. Be certain to inspect hoses for any signs of cracking. Additional items include the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.