Regardless whether you have a new forklift fleet or second-hand forklifts, your equipment needs to be maintained to ensure safety and productivity. Careless forklift operation could result in added expenses due to abuse and damage. There are easy ways to identify operator practices which indirectly contribute to costs related to the improper operation of Caterpillar lift trucks or forklifts. The following tips will help you lower operating expenses while ensuring a long life for your machine.
Causes Of Forklift And Facility Damage
Incorrect Forklifts. For the efficient and safe performance of a forklift, it is essential to select the correct lift truck equipment for the application. One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong type of forklift or alternatives for the particular task. Equipment can suffer premature wear and tear. Parts could be subject to failure. Check that the lift truck is fitted with the correct tires and that they are not worn.
Incorrect Forklift Operating Practices. A common cause of impact damage is improper forklift operating practices. Damage to product, machine or facilities could occur while navigating around things. A congested work area lends itself to impacts. Like for example, pushing pallets, called "Bulldozing", can wear tires and damage the transmission.
Unsafe Forklift Speeding and Lifting. Personal injury and equipment damage could happen by improper lifting practices. Common errors comprise lifting too high and traveling very fast. A load which is too heavy could 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 one more common consequence of driving over debris.
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