Forklift safety and maintenance in changeable weather
Extreme and changeable weather, be it heavy rain, extreme winds or ice, can affect the way your forklifts operate. In changeable weather, there are a few extra safety precautions that you should take to make sure you’re operating as safely as possible.
Forklift maintenance for changeable weather
Downtime can cost your business, so make sure you’re ready for whatever the seasons throw at you with regular forklift servicing and maintenance. Servicing and maintenance should be undertaken regularly regardless of the weather conditions, but are especially important to remember after periods of extreme weather like snow or ice.
We offer a hassle-free service to make sure your business stays running as it should. Whether your vehicles are due their regular check-up or you’re concerned about a fault, we can help with:
- Preventative Maintenance (PM)
- Performance testing
- Identifying and fixing faults
- Keeping vehicles clean
Find out more about our forklift servicing.
Forklift safety in wet weather
Some electric forklifts cannot operate outdoors in wet weather, but many are built to withstand at least moderate rain. If you’re using a forklift outdoors in wet weather, there are some things you need to keep in mind. Rainy conditions lead to an increased risk of accidents, so make sure you have the correct precautions in place.
- Just like with driving a car, breaks may become slick in wet weather leading to a change in break times. Be aware of potentially increased stopping distances.
- Heavy rain can cause surfaces to be slippery. Drive slowly and take extra care when manoeuvring.
- Keep in mind that in rain, visibility may be impaired. Always keep your lights on in rain and sound your horn when moving.
- Wear appropriate clothing. This could include high vis clothing to ensure you stand out when there’s limited visibility, waterproofs and non-slip boots.
Forklift safety in windy weather
High winds can affect working conditions when operating a forklift outdoors. If you’re working during strong winds, make sure you:
- Ensure your loads are secure and, if possible, strapped down.
- Take it slow so that you remain in constant control.
- If conditions are affecting your work, know when to postpone working until conditions improve – trust your instincts and don’t operate a forklift when it feels unsafe.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and watch out for fallen or damaged trees, posts, or other structures.
Forklift safety in extreme heat
While blazing sunshine is generally seen as a cause for celebration, it can be difficult for those working outdoors. High temperatures can lead to safety issues, as well as problems with forklifts overheating. Being extra mindful of safety and maintenance in the hot summer months is a must.
- During a heatwave, your forklift may overheat, or your battery may drain much faster than usual. Keep on top of your usual maintenance checks and make sure you’re checking the battery regularly.
- Heat can cause the pressure in your types to increase, leading them to become overinflated. Check your tyre pressure regularly and if needed, release air to keep the levels normal.
- When operating machinery in extreme heat, make sure you look after yourself. Regular breaks are important to keep exhaustion at bay, and staying hydrating is vital to avoid heatstroke. It also helps to wear cool, loose-fitting clothing in breathable materials.
Forklift safety in winter
The winter months can be tough for operating forklifts outdoors, as dropping temperatures, ice and snow become concerns. It’s important to remain extra vigilant throughout winter to keep yourself, and your fellow workers, safe.
- Make sure you keep the site gritted in icy weather.
- When not in use, keep your vehicles covered or indoors during the winter months. Freezing temperatures and ice can cause mechanical issues in forklifts.
- When operating a forklift in winter, particularly in low light, rain or snow, make sure you’re visible. Keep your lights on and wear high visibility clothing. If possible, keep the area you’re working in floodlit.
- Keep an eye on your fluid levels. Extreme low temperatures can lead to fluids being frozen, so check your hydraulic fluid and coolant levels to avoid faults.
Find out more about winter forklift safety advice.
Forklift safety precautions
No matter the weather, general safety and maintenance advice always applies. This includes ensuring you have the correct training, wearing the correct work gear, always remaining aware of your surroundings and keeping on top of your forklift maintenance.
Ultimately, you should always be comfortable carrying out work. The best cure is prevention, so if in doubt, don’t drive. Damaged vehicles or injured staff aren’t worth the risk, so it’s important to always keep safety at the forefront of your mind.
Are your forklifts ready for whatever the weather throws at you? We can help you keep on top of your forklift maintenance with forklift truck servicing. To find out more, get in touch today.
