Forklift info
Purchasing a forklift
Buying a forklift can be a substantial investment decision for your business, and having the correct equipment for your specific application is important. Efficiency and safety should not be compromised through poor specification or budgetary constraints.
Much like buying a car, forklift pricing varies widely by brand, and pricing does correlate to overall quality and reliability. Top line brands are generally more expensive to purchase due to technological advances, but this gives them greater ability to withstand misuse and service in harsh environments, and in the long term will offer greater performance and reliability.
There are a number of things to consider prior to purchasing a forklift:
- Capacity - the size and weight of your loads.
- Lift Height - the height of your lifts.
- Operating Environment - the surface, conditions and location of your lifts.
- Fuel - the cheapest, safest and most viable source for your application.
- Aisle Width - the room you have to maneuver in.
- Usage - typical operating hours.
- Attachments - the right equipment for the job.
Our sales staff will be able to provide guidance on your specific application.
Forklift Safety Tips
Maintenance is the most important part of keeping your forklift going for years of hassle free work. Regardless of the hours used your forklift still requires frequent servicing to stop major breakdowns. Here are a few things you may want to check on your forklift:
- Forklift chains can stretch or become damaged if not adjusted correctly. Mast chain adjustment is checked with the mast in a vertical position. In that position there should be a slight gap between the forks and the ground. Is your forklift chain adjusted correctly?
- Occupational Health & Safety Standards look at tyne wear on forklifts by checking the tyne closest to the rear of the machine and not the front. Are your tynes compliant?
- Your forklift must be fitted with a load rating plate.
- Check that reverse beeper and rotating beacons are functioning properly.
For more information visit the Workplace Health & Safety website: http://www.deir.qld.gov.au/workplace/subjects/forklift/index.htm
Driver Training
Training is a key aspect of operating a forklift. Employers should not allow anyone to operate mechanical handling equipment, even on a casual basis, if they do not hold a forklift license. Failure to train operators could be considered a breach of worklplace health and safety regulations. Implementing an effective and ongoing training programme is a legal necessity of operating a forklift and the key to reducing damage and preventing injury to personnel.