Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Importance of Safety Training for Forklift Operators


The Importance of Safety Training for Forklift Operators

Many companies which are in the material handling business require good quality forklifts to handle their operations quickly and more efficiently. To keep the forklift in the best condition, forklift service must be preformed on a regular basis. Likewise, a well-trained forklift operator ensures the safe operation of the equipment to minimize accidents, breakdowns, and repairs. Forklift operators should undergo basic and safety training, depending on the type of lift truck. Established providers of services such as Toyota forklift services in Atlanta can help you access the best safety training for your forklift operators. This of course is advantageous in many ways, such as:

It keeps workers safe

The elevated level of activity around work sites raises the possibility of accidents. The right safety-training for your lift truck operators is a sure way to reduce the number of casualties. On the other hand, if an operator is not given the necessary safety training, they are a danger to themselves and everyone around the work site. Getting your operator trained will keep people safe from possible harm or loss of life, and eliminate downtimes. A forklift operator who is at home with essential safety measures will work more efficiently.

Reduces unnecessary costs
Training your operators on a regular basis may be time consuming and cost you money but it pays huge dividends in the long term. Although it may even reduce productivity around the work site for a number of days, it would be costlier to manage accidents that often happen in the absence of workplace safety. Accidents come with financial and legal implications, all of which your company can do without. Workers may be severely injured, your company reputation destroyed, and equipment damaged.

Increases lift truck lifespan

A well-trained operator knows how best to handle their forklift around the work area and traffic. They are aware of the necessary routine safety checks they ought to perform before using the forklift. If they notice any problems with the forklift, they are in a better position to ensure that they are addressed before they get worse or result in accidents. If you are renting a lift truck, dealers who offer forklifts for rent in Atlanta and other places can help arrange the necessary safety training for your operators. Having an operator who operates your equipment safely helps you get maximum return on your investment, as the equipment can serve you efficiently for many years. 


Get Help Today

Forklift operator safety training has many other benefits that it offers to your company or operations. Operators should also learn standard safety rules by the OSHA regulation board. There are many operator training agencies and you can approach certified Toyota forklift service providers in Atlanta for your forklift operator training.

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Forklift Maintenance Tips For The Start Of A New Year

As the year begins, it’s a good time to take stock of your equipment before getting down to business. If you use forklifts, it is important to periodically undertake routine maintenance to eliminate downtimes, prevent costly repairs, ensure the equipment performs safely and optimally, and serves you for long. If your lift truck is not in good shape or out of action, this may be a good time to recondition it or consider getting a new one. You can also get used forklifts for sale in Atlanta and other jurisdictions at affordable prices. Below are some of the major parts of a forklift that you must check before putting it back to use.


Battery life/Condition

If a forklift battery is near the end of its life or damaged, it can cause unnecessary disruptions or delays to your operations. If your battery is in a bad state, try to repair it, and if not possible, get a new one. If it is still in a good condition, just service it to ensure it continues to work optimally and lives long. Get expert help if you are not familiar with battery servicing or repair.


Hydraulics

Always ensure that the lift truck’s hydraulic system is intact. That means checking for any cracks in the hydraulic pipes and ensuring that oil is not leaking from the pipes. Also, make sure that your lift truck is well lubricated to aid the proper functioning of the engine, tines etc., and longevity. If the components are lubricated and hydraulics routinely maintained, you reduce downtimes and expensive repairs by preventing or fixing problems in their infancy. If you are ever in need of forklift service fixing the problem early is the key to long and costly repairs.


Tines and Tires

Your fork tines should still be intact, without any receding cracks that may cause accidents or even further damage the lift truck. If they are worn out or damaged, replace them. Likewise, ensure that the tires are in an excellent condition and can see the forklift through the year. It is always good practice to keep spare tires in case of any damage to the ones in use, to eliminate downtimes.


Forklift License

Remember to check your lift truck’s license for validity. If the license needs to be renewed soon, keep the fact in mind and note it down somewhere. You need to get the forklift inspected to get it licensed. Also, check your operators training, and if they need new training for the new or used lift truck in your fleet, make arrangements for the training and certification. This is to help reduce accidents and abide by regulations, and ensure proper use of your equipment.
Stay on Top of the Situation


Regular inspection of your forklift is a good practice, as it alerts you of any issues that need to be addressed. Routine checks and maintenance of your lift truck also helps you determine if it is still in good condition to carry out the desired tasks safely and efficiently. You might be better off renting or getting a new one. You can also get used lift trucks for sale from reputable forklift services providers in Atlanta.