People use forklifts for a variety of purposes these days. It’s hard to find a manufacturing or construction company or a warehouse that does not have a forklift wrecker. These machines are invaluable when it comes to lifting loads weighing up to several thousands of kilograms or pounds.
What are Forklifts?
At first glance, a forklift bears some semblance to a small truck. However, that’s about as far as similarities go. Unlike a truck, the forklift also has two metallic forks (also known as blades or tines) at the front. These forks are essential for lifting and transporting cargo. When operational, the forklift operator drives the machine forward until the forks push beneath the cargo. Then, the operator manoeuvres the forks so that they lift the cargo to a suitable height.
Forklift manufacturers are aware that the true strength of the machine lies in its forks. Therefore, they use the best quality of steel for making these forks. This strength and solidity is what enables the forklift to carry loads weighing several tons and make it look easy too. However, forklifts experience many wear and tear issues, which could make them breakdown occasionally. To remedy this, you would need to obtain genuine Hyster forklift parts for your Hyster forklift.
For the most part, forklifts can run on propane, electricity or gas. The machines that run on gas or propane are usually stronger or faster than the electricity-powered forklifts are. However, maintaining these machines is not easy. In addition, while gas prices might be low at present, the price of fuel will always be greater than the tariffs levied for the consumption of electricity.
Electric forklifts typically operate via batteries. As mentioned earlier, they are easier to maintain and cost effective as well. However, the biggest advantage that electric forklifts offer is that they are ideal for operating indoors in places like warehouses etc. This is because they do not emit any noxious fumes unlike gas or propane powered units do.
Forklift Training – Essential to Derive Proper Benefits from this Invaluable Machine
Forklifts seldom come cheap. Even used forklifts at forklift sales could cost you hundreds of dollars. Therefore, it is exceedingly critical that you maintain it properly. However, you also need to ensure that you don’t just allow anyone to operate the unit. Rather, you must ensure that an experienced forklift operator handles the forklift. In addition, you must provide the operator with the appropriate training – especially concerning the forklift safety rules and regulations.
Forklifts are useful machines in warehouses and other business enterprises. However, when handled by an incompetent or inexperienced operator, the forklift could become dangerous as well. These machines could easily cause harm to the operator as well as to other workers or bystanders. Alternatively, they could even damage the cargo in the warehouse. Damage to cargo might be costly enough. However, if your workers suffer injuries, you could end up paying a hefty compensation.
Therefore, ensure that your forklift operators follow basic safety rules in the facility. They must:
- Drive the forklift at a safe speed
- Use the seatbelt each time they operate the forklift
- Understand how to judge the weight and size of the load to prevent the forklift from overturning
- Ensure that the forklift has a safety cage for keeping the operator safe
- Ensure that the forklift remains well maintained and that it goes for regular servicing
Are You Looking for Authentic Mitsubishi Forklift Parts?
At South Coast Forklifts, we provide new and used forklifts for sale or hire. In addition, we also supply any kind of spare part for any make or model of forklifts. This is because we have a comprehensive inventory of thousands of authentic spare parts. Therefore, many businesses that use forklifts in Australia depend on us for a wide range of purposes.
If you require any spare parts or forklifts or are considering purchasing a new or a used forklift, call us at 1300 988 795. With our expertise, you will always get the best value for your money.