Why Proper Maintenance and Inspection of Lift Trucks Are Important
Regular maintenance and inspection of lift trucks are vital to ensure optimum performance and extend their lifespan. Failure to maintain and inspect forklifts can result in machinery breakdowns, product damage, injury, and even fatalities. Inspecting the equipment frequently will also help detect any faults, allowing you to rectify them on time before they escalate and threaten the safety of your operators and workers. Here are some essential maintenance and inspection tips to keep your lift trucks in top-notch condition and prevent machine downtimes. Supplement your study with this recommended external source. Investigate supplementary data and fresh viewpoints on the subject addressed in the piece. osha forklift certification, immerse yourself further in the topic.
Check the Oil and Fluids Level
Always check the oil and hydraulic fluids level first according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Keep a routine schedule to check the oil at regular intervals and top up if frequently necessary. Running the equipment on low fluids levels can cause damage to the engine and hydraulic system.
Check The Battery and Charging System
The electric-driven forklift’s battery should be fully charged before use. A weak battery will not maintain the charge, leading to frequent downtime for recharging, which slows down production. Ensure the forklift charging area is kept clean and free from debris that may be hazardous to the battery. Check the battery and the charging system regularly as recommended by the forklift manufacturer.
Inspect the Tires
The forklift tires wear and tear, hence the need to inspect them regularly. Check the tire pressure as per the manufacturer’s recommendation and ensure the treads and sidewalls of the tires are in good condition. A forklift’s stability relies on its tires, and tire failure due to neglect can cause the equipment to topple and result in serious injury to operators and workers nearby.
Inspect the Brakes
The brakes control a forklift’s movement, therefore, inspecting them is vital to the equipment’s safety. Apply the emergency brake and check the brakes’ hydraulic system functioning properly while conducting routine preventative maintenance checks on a forklift. If not, consider taking the equipment for immediate repairs.
Check the Chains and Mast
Inspect the chains and mast frequently since the forklift’s functionality based on the lifting and lowering of the mast. Ensure the chains are not sagging and have the required tension for optimum performance. Lubricate the chains to prevent rust development, which can lead to chain and mast failure.
Examine The Safety Features
The safety features on the forklift are critical in reducing accident occurrences in the workplace. Conduct routine inspections on all the safety features such as horns, mirrors, backup alarms, and warning lights to ensure they are working effectively. Since the forklift’s lighting system aids operators in seeing, ensure the forklift’s headlights, and warning lights are working correctly.
Conduct Routine Cleaning
Conduct routine cleaning of the forklift to help maintain its durability. Cleaning the equipment often prevents the accumulation of debris, which may cause its parts to malfunction. Cleaning the equipment prevents rust and prolongs the machine life. Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning tasks, as recommended by the forklift’s manufacturer.
Conclusion
When you complete these inspections and maintenance tasks, document them in an orderly fashion. The documentation can designate when the forklift should on a planned maintenance schedule, making it easier for the assigned technician or mechanic to carry out regular checks. Lastly, partnering with reputable suppliers or original equipment manufacturers for all aspects of your forklift’s needs will ensure the trustworthy performance of the equipment. Ensure proper maintenance and inspection to maintain its durability, safety, and longevity. Want to dive deeper into the topic? https://www.ferraridrivingschool.com/osha-certification/forklift-training/, external material we’ve put together for you.
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