Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts need a proper maintenance program to help increase the machine's lifespan and is an important factor in allowing the machine to function effectively and safely. Completing forklift inspection on a regular basis and performing preventive maintenance regularly would help to ensure the safe and efficient use of the machine.
Daily Checklist
The daily checklist is an invaluable tool in any forklift maintenance program. These checklists would help to document any and all potential 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. Operators are required to complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift is not to be put into service until the issue has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
Each year about 100 people are injured in forklift mishaps in the USA. Statistics show that roughly 20,000 people will be seriously injured as a result of a forklift mishap. This number represents 54 people a day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. Many of these accidents can be easily prevented if the forklift had been correctly maintained and serviced. In several 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 handbook would include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will differ depending on every manufacturer and each type of forklift. Each schedule will consist of a variety of basic things. Like for instance, in a combustion engine, the oil filters and the engine oil should be replaced sometimes. Hydraulic levels must be checked as well. Be sure to inspect hoses for any indications of cracking. Additional items involve the electrical systems, the brakes and the transmission of the forklift.