In order to guarantee safety and productivity, your machinery must be maintained whether it is a used forklift or a new forklift. Careless forklift operation can lead to additional costs due to abuse and damage. There are simple ways to identify operator practices which indirectly contribute to costs associated to the wrong operation of Caterpillar lift trucks or forklifts. The tips below would help you lower operating costs while ensuring a long life for your equipment.
Causes Of Facility and Forklift Damage
Wrong Forklifts. Choosing the correct lift truck equipment for the application is essential for safe and efficient forklift performance. One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong type of forklift or alternatives for the specific task. Equipment could suffer premature wear and tear. Components could be subject to failure. Make certain 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 facilities, product or machine may happen while navigating around products. A congested work place lends itself to impacts. Like for instance, pushing pallets, referred to as "Bulldozing", could wear tires and damage the transmission.
Unsafe Forklift Lifting and Speeding. Incorrect lifting practices could result in personal injury and equipment damage. Common mistakes consist of lifting very high and traveling very fast. A load which is very heavy could cause the forklift to tip over. The operator should make sure that the forks are level.
Poor Floor Conditions. Obstructions and debris on the floor are the most common cause of forklift damage. If wood, twine, plastic or banding gets into the engine compartment, the cooling system can be compromised. The result could be engine failure or even fire.
Axle or radiator damage is another common consequence of driving over debris.
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