Forklift supplier Briggs Equipment is urging companies to review their winter preparedness to avoid unnecessary downtime or expense.
Most of the UK has so far escaped the arctic conditions that brought the country to a standstill last year, but winter is far from over and could still cause problems for businesses, Briggs says.
"So far, the winter has been relatively mild, but this is no excuse to skip on some basic measures to ensure that your forklifts and other materials handling equipment continue to run smoothly in all weathers," says Briggs' engineering standards manager Dean Mansell.
"The majority of our clients have already taken precautions but with much colder weather predicted for many parts of the country from mid-January onwards, now would be a good time to review them.
"Companies that haven't made plans may have got away with it so far, but they really do risk being caught out if the weather takes a sudden turn for the worse," Mansell explains.
Briggs recommends basic checks that include:
- Make sure the coolant system in engine trucks has a suitable concentration of anti-freeze;
- Ensure oil and other lubricants are kept topped up to keep the truck running smoothly in the cold;
- Check that the service schedule on all trucks is up-to-date and carry out daily checks on significant components;
- Make sure that all outdoor areas where trucks operate are kept free of ice and snow;
- Ensure that operators know how to use equipment safely in adverse conditions.
Other weather-related problems that firms should be aware of include heavy rain that can lead to a muddy working environment. Trucks need to be cleaned regularly to avoid becoming clogged up with debris like dead leaves.
Mansell says: "It is vital to note that batteries in electric trucks will not operate at maximum efficiency in very cold weather, so additional charging time will need to be planned for. It's also worth keeping extra fuel on site in case supplies are disrupted.
"Remember that the equipment is only as effective as the operator, so make sure they are suitably equipped to face the conditions, with warm, waterproof clothing."