Daily Forklift Maintenance
There are many businesses that require a forklift for daily operations. If your business requires moving heavy materials, then most likely you will be using one of these vehicles. Various types of FLs are available for different situations, such as diesel, gas or electric. It doesn’t matter what type of machine you are using, or whether it’s new or used; all require daily maintenance.
Each driver should be qualified for daily maintenance. The first thing a driver should do is walk around the truck to inspect for potential problems. Depending on the type of device you own, below are some checks that should be performed:
- Battery fluids and hydraulic oil.
- Hoses for damage and leaks.
- Tires for damage and inflation pressure, as well as lug nuts for tightness.
- Battery and cables for damage.
- Fuel.
- Fire extinguisher.
- Engine coolant.
- Drive belts.
- Ensure Lights are in working order.
- Safety equipment.
- Back up alarm/horn is properly working.
- Steering, clutch, and brakes.
- Fork condition.
- Ensure all warning decals and plates are legible and in place. Be sure the nameplate matches the model and serial numbers.
- The operations manual is on the forklift.
Personal protective equipment should always be used when performing forklift maintenance. While driving the forklift you need to be aware of the potential hazards; mechanical breakdown, fire, overheating and leakage.
A forklift that is defective, or unsafe, should be taken out of service immediately. All problems need to be recorded on the appropriate documents and reported to the supervisor. Never operate a machine that requires maintenance or is unsafe. All repairs should be made by authorized personnel, do not attempt to fix the problem yourself unless you are trained and have authorization. Preventative maintenance should be performed according to the manufacturer.
Ensuring forklift operators’ certification to learn these measures will result in fewer injuries, unnecessary costs and will prolong the life of the vehicle.