Timber product companies operating forklifts have been advised to get prepared for ice, snow and freezing conditions to ensure their operations run smoothly this winter.
Barloworld Handling has produced a checklist for companies to help them prepare for the worst of the weather.
The company’s national service manager Andrew Dawson advised companies to talk to their supplier as early as possible to ensure their forklifts were specified correctly with the correct tyres for winter outdoor operation.
He said servicing was important, particularly for batteries, hydraulics and electrical systems, while training drivers to be more cautious with their speed on icy services was vital to reduce safety risks.
Other advice includes gritting yard areas in freezing conditions and checking tyre treads, ensuring drivers complete daily checks, ensuring suitable lighting on forklifts or in external areas.
Mr Dawson said if the forklift does not have a cab, companies could consider upgrading the machine to include screens, wipers, Covers, heaters and even complete cabs depending on budgets. Winter clothing should also be provided for drivers.
Security and stock levels of fuel supplies should be checked in case fuel supplies are delayed or restricted due to snow.
“Check that forklift snowploughs, scoops, salt spreaders/gritters and a wide range of other useful attachments are readily available onsite,” said Mr Dawson.
