Regardless whether you have a brand new forklift fleet or used forklifts, your machine needs to be maintained to guarantee productivity and safety. Careless forklift operation can result in added costs because of damage and abuse. There are simple ways to identify operator practices which indirectly contribute to expenses related to the improper operation of Caterpillar lift trucks or forklifts. The following tips will really help you lessen operating expenses while ensuring a long life for your machinery.
Causes Of Forklift And Facility Damage
Wrong Forklifts. For the efficient and safe performance of a forklift, it is vital to pick the right lift truck equipment for the application. One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong kind of forklift or alternatives for the particular job. Equipment can suffer premature wear and tear. Parts may be subject to failure. Check that the lift truck is fitted with the right tires and that they are not worn.
Improper Forklift Operating Practices. A common cause of impact damage is improper forklift operating practices. Damage to machine, facilities or product could take place while navigating around products. A congested work place lends itself to impacts. For example, pushing pallets, referred to as "Bulldozing", can wear tires and damage the transmission.
Unsafe Forklift Lifting and Speeding. Equipment damage and personal injury could happen by improper lifting practices. Common mistakes include lifting very high and traveling too fast. A load that is very heavy can cause the forklift to tip over. The driver should make sure that the forks are level.
Poor Floor Conditions. Debris and obstructions on the floor are the most common cause of forklift damage. If wood, twine, banding or plastic gets into the engine compartment, the cooling system can be compromised. The result can be engine failure or even fire.
Axle or radiator damage is another common consequence of driving over debris.
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