10 Tips to reduce damage in your forklift operations

If your business requires regular use of forklift trucks as part of your day-to-day operations then managing forklift operations effectively is extremely important for maintaining efficiency and reducing risks in your business.

Here are 10 suggestions that you can consider applying in your company during the upcoming months to reduce the negative impact on your business’s forklift operations.

1. Choose to invest in thorough forklift training programs.

Not all training is the same. There are some amazing training providers out there and in the same vein, there are some providers that just don’t cut the mustard when it comes to comprehensive training. Make sure all forklift operators receive proper training to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Enrolling staff in accredited courses improves their proficiency and adherence to industry standards.

2. Make Operator Certification a priority in your company.

Invest in your workforce, it will be the single best investment you make. Get your forklift operators certified to meet regulatory standards, like the ones set by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE). A certified team is both legally compliant and better at reducing risks.  Your workforce will appreciate the opportunity to develop their skills and qualifications with accredited certificates.

3. Set up consistent maintenance plans.

Consistency is key, create and follow a regular maintenance plan for your forklifts. Inspect and fix any damage promptly to ensure they work well, decreasing the chances of breakdowns and accidents. There are many asset and scheduling software on the market that will help you and your team keep track of your forklifts and the maintenance carried out making things a lot easier.

4. Highlight proper loading and unloading methods.

There’s a right way to do things and the wrong way. Teach your employees how to load and unload safely. Emphasise even distribution, securing items, and keeping a clear view. Use these practices consistently to protect goods and people. There are several courses out there that cover this topic specifically and should be included in most comprehensive forklift training.

5. Implement Traffic Management Systems.

Build a strong traffic system in your building with clear paths for people and forklifts, and noticeable signs. This reduces accidents and keeps things running smoothly.  Make sure all systems are communicated throughout the business and part of any induction for contractors or visitors to your site.

6. Enforce Speed Limits.

Please see above. Effective traffic management systems have speed limits. Set and follow speed limits for forklifts on your property. Controlling speed lowers accident risk and improves workplace safety.

7. Promote a Safe Awareness Culture.

A workforce that knows their safety is a priority to their employer is a happy and productive workforce. Promote and communicate safety awareness with your staff and get them involved in creating a culture of safety within your business. Share safety rules, encourage reporting of dangers, and celebrate a dedication to safety in your team.

8. Update safety protocols regularly.

To keep your safety protocols up to date, regularly review and update guidelines. Make sure they match changes in technology, processes, and industry practices.

9. Conduct Regular Safety Audits.

Regularly check your safety measures to see if they are working well. Use the results to find areas that need improvement and fix any potential risks quickly.

10. Provide Ongoing Training and Refresher Courses.

At the end of the day, systems change, processes change and so to maintain a safe working environment, it is important to provide ongoing training and refresher courses for trained forklift operators. This will help keep them updated on safety practices and ensure their commitment to safety.

Hopefully, by implementing some if not all of these tips into your business, you can reduce damage and improve the safety and efficiency of your forklift operations.

Protect your assets, and staff, and create a successful workplace. If you would like to know more about forklift training and forklift training courses provided by PLT Training please get in touch today.