As winter approaches, the weather will get worse and the days are getting shorter. So it's time to start preparing yourself, your employees, equipment and operating areas for the winter and the worse conditions it brings. The following are the top 10 forklift safety tips we provide in winter.
With the arrival of winter, the weather will get worse and the time of day will gradually shorten. So it's time to start preparing yourself, your employees, equipment and operating areas for the winter and the harsh conditions it brings. The following are the top 10 forklift safety tips we provide in winter.
Prepare your operating area
(1) Sand the forklift driving area
If you have external operating areas, make sure they are sanded in winter. As the possibility of icing increases, your forklift will be more prone to accidents if there is no proper gravel in the operation area.
Preparation and maintenance of forklift
(2) Protect your forklift from outside influences
Protect the forklift if you use it indoors or outdoors in winter. If your forklift does not have a closed cabin, make sure you invest in a forklift cover to protect your forklift from adverse weather conditions when not in use.
(3) Check the forklift for obvious damage before use
In winter, it is important to pay close attention to your forklift, because bad weather conditions may lead to damage and accidents. Make sure your forklift is checked for obvious damage every time you use it, because any problems can be magnified by bad weather.
(4) Maintain
In winter, there are more requirements for the key parts of your forklift. A regular and thorough maintenance plan will enable your forklift to operate effectively even in harsh conditions.
(5) Monitoring liquid
Any vehicle, in colder weather, will face the possibility of liquid freezing. This includes your forklift. Although forklift engines are designed to be very durable, sometimes unusually cold weather can cause problems.
Diesel oil, in particular, turns into jelly at extremely cold temperatures. This may have an impact on the performance of the machine and, more seriously, may lead to expensive and sometimes irreversible damage. Please make sure to check your fluid before using the machine.
(6) Add chains or nails to your tires
In addition to laying gravel in the outer area, it's also a good idea to increase the grip of your tires. Tire chains or nails are a good way to ensure the safety of forklifts and drivers in ice and snow conditions.
(7) Let the forklift warm up before use
Proper warm-up of the forklift is important for both the engine and the hydraulic system. Do not allow your forklift to warm up properly before use, which will increase wear and fuel consumption.
Prepare yourself and your colleagues.
(8) Plan ahead
Winter comes so fast that it's easy to be caught off guard. It seems counterintuitive to start planning for winter when the weather is still warm and sunny, but by doing so, you will ensure that everything runs smoothly and effectively during winter.
Make sure you and your team have the latest cold weather driving procedures and general forklift safety knowledge. In addition, it's best to have a winter plan to let your team know.
(9) Drive carefully
When operating your forklift, drive carefully. Make sure your speed is only when conditions are considered safe. Visibility may also be affected, so use your front and rear lights, keep the windows open, and make sure you are fully vigilant when operating the machine.
(10) Wrap your clothes tightly
Make sure you have the right winter clothes, including hats, gloves and jackets. Too cold will affect your reaction and distract you from the work at hand. Where appropriate, make sure you also have Hippie clothing so that you can still be seen when visibility is affected.
