Australia's summer heat can place significant stress on forklifts, impacting their performance, safety, and longevity. Preparing your forklifts before the heat peaks is essential for smooth operations and operator safety. In this guide, we will discuss why summer preparation is important. We will also give you practical tips for maintenance and safety to keep your fleet running well.
Why Is It Important to Prepare Forklifts for Summer?
Preparing forklifts for the Australian summer is crucial for several reasons:
- Extreme heat can shorten battery life and hydraulic systems: High temperatures may cause battery fluid to evaporate and this can put stress on hydraulic parts. As a result, efficiency drops and failures may happen.
- Tyres wear out faster on hot surfaces: High temperatures can cause more tyre wear and increase the chance of blowouts, especially on hard surfaces.
- Risk of engine overheating: Engines that run in extreme heat and lack proper maintenance can overheat which can lead to breakdowns.
- Operators face more safety concerns. Hot environments can cause fatigue and reduce focus which increases the chance of accidents.
Proactive maintenance not only reduces downtime and repair costs but also ensures the safety and productivity of your operations.
What are the Key Maintenance Checks Before Summer Starts?
To prepare your forklifts for the summer heat, conduct the following maintenance checks:
- Cooling systems: Ensure coolant levels are adequate and the radiator is clean to prevent overheating.
- Battery health: Inspect batteries for signs of corrosion or overheating and clean terminals regularly.
- Hydraulic fluids: Check fluid levels and viscosity; replace if necessary to maintain smooth operation.
- Tyres: Monitor tyre pressure and inspect for signs of wear; replace tyres that show excessive wear.
- Filters and belts: Replace worn filters and belts to avoid engine strain and maintain optimal performance.
How Can You Improve Forklift Safety During Hot Weather?
Implementing the following forklift safety tips can enhance operator safety during hot weather:
- Encourage operators to stay hydrated and take breaks: Provide access to water and air-conditioned rest areas to prevent heat-related illnesses.
- Schedule operations during cooler hours if possible: Plan heavy lifting tasks during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat.
- Ensure cabins have proper ventilation or fans: Adequate airflow can help maintain a comfortable working environment.
- Store forklifts in shaded or indoor areas when idle: Protecting equipment from direct sunlight can prevent overheating.
- Conduct pre-shift inspections: Regular checks can identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
Do Electric and Diesel Forklifts Need Different Summer Care?
Yes, electric and diesel forklifts have distinct maintenance needs during the summer:
- Electric forklifts: Emphasise battery cooling, ensure charging stations are well-ventilated, and avoid overcharging to prolong battery life.
- Diesel forklifts: Check engine oil regularly. Keep the air filters clean. Inspect the fuel system to avoid overheating and ensure smooth operation.
What Are Common Forklift Issues During Summer and how to Prevent Them?
Common summer-related forklift issues and prevention tips include:
- Overheating: Maintain fluid levels and keep radiators clean to ensure proper cooling.
- Tyre blowouts: Use heat-resistant tyres and maintain proper inflation to reduce the risk of blowouts.
- Battery drain: Avoid long idle times and implement efficient charging practices to preserve battery life.
- Reduced operator focus: Follow forklift safety tips to prevent fatigue and maintain alertness.
By addressing these issues proactively, you can minimise downtime and enhance operational efficiency.
How Can Regular Servicing Improve Forklift Performance in Summer?
Regular servicing helps identify early signs of overheating or wear before they lead to major damage. Benefits of dealer-serviced maintenance include:
- Use of genuine parts: Ensures compatibility and reliability.
- Certified technicians: Skilled professionals can diagnose and address issues accurately.
- Performance tuning for extreme conditions: Adjustments tailored to summer conditions can optimise performance.
It’s Time to get Summer Ready
Preparing forklifts for the summer heat is essential to ensure better performance, longer lifespan, and safer operations. By doing regular maintenance, you can prepare for summer challenges in Australia and ensure your staff stay safe. For more information on forklift maintenance and safety, contact us.