In this article, you will find five essential tips to guarantee the safe and efficient operation of forklift trucks in warehouses.
Tip 1: Don’t Drag the Forks
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Dragging the forks along the floor can quickly wear down the heel, making it unsafe and resulting in a Vehicle Off Road (VOR) notification.
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This will require the forks to be replaced, causing downtime and additional expenses.
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To avoid this, make sure to lift the forks instead of dragging them along the floor.
Tip 2: Keep Within Weight Limits
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It is essential to know the weight limits of your forklift and make sure to stay within them.
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Lifting loads that exceed the truck’s maximum weight can cause excessive stretching of the chains and increase the frequency of inspections.
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Make sure to always lift weights well within the safe lifting limits to avoid any accidents or damages.
Tip 3: Be Aware of Your Surroundings
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Bent forks are a common fault in forklifts, which can be avoided by being aware of your surroundings.
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Avoid banging the forks on racking, structures, or other objects in the environment.
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Lifting with just a single fork or using only the tips can also cause the forks to become bent.
“We see far too many trucks become V.O.R due to faults which can be avoided. Taking that little extra care will help to prolong the life of your forklift and keep your operation running as efficiently and safely as possible.”
Geoff Willis – Statutory Inpsections, Managing Director
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Tip 4: Treat Your Truck with Care
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The forklift is often the most crucial machine in the warehouse, and it is essential to treat it with care.
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Avoid unnecessary damage, such as ripped seats, broken lights, and worn fork heels, by driving carefully and avoiding rough terrain.
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These faults can result in a VOR, causing disruptions in warehouse operations.
Tip 5: Stay Up to Date on Thorough Examinations
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A Thorough Examination is required every 6 or 12 months, depending on usage or manufacturer specifications.
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This examination ensures that the forklift is compliant with LOLER and PUWER regulations and is in safe working order.
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It is similar to an MOT for a car and is crucial for the longevity and safety of the forklift.
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Some of the most common faults on forklifts include:
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Common Faults in Forklifts
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Stretched chains
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Ripped seats
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Worn tires
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Broken lights
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Bent forks
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Fork heel wear
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No seatbelt
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Debris in hubs
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Inoperative horn
Conclusion
By following these 5 forklift friendly tips, you can avoid the most common faults and improve the longevity of your forklift. If you are unsure about the validity of your forklift’s Thorough Examination report, do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.
Taking care of your forklift will not only ensure the safety of your warehouse operatives but also help your operation run smoothly and efficiently. -
Follow these 5 forklift friendly tips to help avoid the most common faults and improve the longevity of your forklift. If you’re unsure if your truck has a valid Thorough Examination report get in touch. We will be happy to help.
FAQs
- How often should a Thorough Examination be conducted on a forklift?
A Thorough Examination is required every 6 or 12 months, depending on usage or manufacturer specifications.
- What are the consequences of exceeding the weight limits on a forklift?
Exceeding the weight limits can cause excessive stretching of the chains and increase the frequency of inspections.
- Can dragging the forks along the floor cause any damage to the forklift?
Yes, dragging the forks can wear down the heel and result in a VOR notification, requiring the forks to be replaced.
- What is the most common fault in forklifts?
Bent forks are a common fault in forklifts, which can be avoided by being aware of your surroundings and lifting carefully.
- How can I ensure the safety of my warehouse operatives?
By following the top 5 forklift friendly tips, you can ensure the safety of your warehouse operatives and improve the longevity of your forklift