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Autonomous forklifts are on the way up. With warehouses becoming more and more fast paced, autonomous forklifts can be of benefit to the working environment. So what are the pros and cons of autonomous forklifts?

PROS

Less human contact. Autonomous forklifts mean less human intervention is required, meaning workers can be diverted to other needs within the business.

Productivity is up! Autonomous machines mean that productivity is naturally going to rise. The methodical process of machinery means that tasks can be completed in a timely and accurate manner.

Safety first. By decreasing the involvement of human contact, workers stay safer in the warehouse and the risk of incidents, which can be significant in a warehouse, immediately falls.

CONS

How it all works. Whilst in the long run technology can make the warehouse more efficient, the learning and training process on new technology can affect productivity in the short term.

 Tight budget? Investment in autonomous forklifts can be costly to the business and initial implementation could be significantly expensive.

Malfunction? Like any technology, autonomous forklifts can go wrong. A breakdown in technology can cause significant delays.

So will you consider autonomous forklifts for your warehouse?

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected].

In busy warehouse environments training can be the last thing on everyone’s minds. However, it is vital that in a warehouse environment where using forklifts is necessary that forklift training is kept up to date. Here’s why.

There are several reasons why it’s important for forklift operators to have up to date training. Safety first and foremost requires periodic updates, plus forklift operators that are up to date with their training use their equipment effectively, ensuring full productivity and longevity for your forklift.

Forklift training is a basic requirement for those operating a forklift. Allowing workers to operate equipment with no or out of date training is hugely risky, to both your team and the organisation. Each country operates a different licensing or certification system for forklift driving too.

Generally speaking, forklift operators should update their training every 3-5 years – but that is just as a minimum. Equipment and standard practises are updated frequently, so it’s vital that your forklift training is kept up to date. So don’t delay, and book your forklift training session with us today!

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]

For many warehouses, forklifts are essential tools in moving goods quickly and efficiently. However, as powerful and heavy machines they can cause a lot of damage if the right precautions aren’t taken – here’s how to protect your warehouse from forklift wear and tear.

Invest in column and post protectors. It’s really as simple as that – make sure your shelving units and any internal posts are well protected from a direct hit from a forklift. Continued damage to the storage racks or internal posts can cause serious problems if not resolved.

Wire decks are a must. A wire deck has lots of benefits, including providing a better view of upper levels in a pallet rack, and protecting workers from falling items more effectively. With a better view, forklift drivers can operate their equipment more effectively and avoid mistakes.

Invest in bollards and guards. If you’ve got expensive or important equipment at risk from a forklift collision, use bollards and guards as a first line defence against a crash.

Plan your routes! If possible, indicating separate areas where forklifts and people can go, away from one another, will make avoiding accidents and forklift damage much easier.

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]

Warehouse management is complex and pressured, and knowing that forklifts are a vital part of an effective warehouse means that any warehouse supervisor needs to make sure the fleet and forklift operators adhere to guidelines to make for a safe and productive environment. Here’s our top tips.

Start with training! Only trained operatives should be driving forklifts, and other employees should be trained in forklift safety. If you’re looking for a training partner you can trust, contact us today! We provide an affordable and flexible forklift training service, according to your needs.

Promote good maintenance. Forklift operators should be encouraged to maintain their vehicles each time they are used and should be able to notice when a forklift needs some care and attention.

Everyone must be safe. Make sure there are clear guidelines in place for safe use of forklifts and for those working around forklifts. Minimising forklift use is a good start. Make sure workers are wearing hi viz clothing and plan your warehouse so pedestrians can move around the space safely.

Remind and repeat! Remind the team of safety measures regularly and encourage the team to talk about safety and maintenance procedures, including to ask questions where they are unsure. Signage will act as a constant reminder too.

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected]

Forklifts are a vital resource in any and every warehouse – and to keep them working effectively, it’s really important they are well looked after. Forklifts need regular servicing to keep them in tip top condition – but what are the tell-tale signs that your forklift is due a service?

Battery power. Is the battery draining to flat quicker than it used to? If the battery is struggling to hold charge it’s a sure sign that an inspection is due.

Leaks. A leak might not look particularly problematic to begin with, but it’s very important to get it checked out as soon as possible. Forklifts operate using a number of fluids and a long term leak could result in the engine seizing up without the vital lubricants it needs.

Check the forklift mast chains. If chains are rusty, bent out of shape or corroded it’s time to repair or replace them – if you don’t take action straight away, you’re risking the whole thing seizing up mid operation!

It can be temping to leave servicing for another day, but chances are you’ll regret it – so ensure time is allocated to make sure forklifts are kept in great working condition!

For more information about our forklift training services, contact us on 03333 442949 or [email protected].