Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts require a proper maintenance program to help increase the machine's lifespan and is an essential factor in allowing the machine to run effectively and safely. Completing forklift check ups on a regular basis and performing preventive maintenance on a routine basis will help to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the machine.
Daily Checklist
The daily checklist is an important tool in any forklift maintenance program. These checklists would help to document any and all potential issues. They are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or the OSHA. The daily checklists could also be audited by OSHA during any routine inspection. Drivers are required to complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift could not be used until the problem has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
Each year approximately 100 people are injured in forklift mishaps in the United States. Statistics show that about 20,000 individuals will be injured seriously because of a forklift accident. This number represents 54 individuals per day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. Many of these mishaps can be prevented easily if the forklift had been properly maintained and serviced. In some circumstances, it might seem like a cost savings to delay or skip routine maintenance, however, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of a single accident.
Things to be Serviced
In the owner's manual of each machine, the manufacturer will include a maintenance schedule. These schedules would differ greatly, depending on the manufacturer and the kind of machine. Every schedule would consist of various basic items. Like for example, in a combustion engine, the engine oil and the oil filter should be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels must be checked as well. Be certain to check hoses for any signs of cracking. Other items include the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.