The rainy season brings continuous rain and high humidity, making people feel irritable, let alone forklifts. Slippery surfaces, obstructed visibility, and damp equipment can all affect the normal operation and safety of forklifts. There are several details that cannot be overlooked during daily operations.
Outdoor loading and unloading on rainy days, especially in open storage areas, is particularly slippery after the ground becomes wet. It's easy to skid and fishtail when driving or turning. When operating, slow down, avoid sharp turns and sudden braking, and frequent acceleration. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance. If there is standing water, clear it promptly and keep the ground dry.
Dampness also affects goods. Damp pallets have reduced load-bearing capacity, and cardboard boxes and other outer packaging are prone to softening and slipping during loading and unloading. When loading, arrange goods neatly and compactly to avoid uneven weight distribution or stacking too high, which could cause goods to fall and be damaged.
Moisture is the number one enemy of forklift circuits, as high humidity can easily cause short circuits. Before operation, routinely check the battery wiring and the entire vehicle's wiring harness for any water seepage or moisture. Also, check the instruments, control system, and lights to ensure they are functioning properly. Protect electrical components at high risk of moisture damage with waterproof wrapping as needed.
The hydraulic and braking systems are the core components of a forklift and require intensive inspection during the rainy season. Check for water ingress, emulsification, or cloudiness in the hydraulic oil, and for leaks at pipe joints. Test the brake response sensitivity and verify the smoothness and responsiveness of fork lifting and lowering movements. Only begin operation if there are no issues.
After each day's work, clean the forklift promptly. Rinse off mud and water adhering to the body and chassis, remove debris from tire crevices, dry exposed metal parts, and lubricate and maintain key areas to prevent corrosion from rainwater and extend the equipment's lifespan. Avoid operating during periods of heavy rain or severe flooding. Choose relatively calm weather times for handling and loading/unloading to significantly reduce safety hazards and ensure smooth operations. The rainy season places higher demands on forklift operation procedures and equipment maintenance.
Adhering to pre-shift checks, standardized operation, and post-shift maintenance will reduce equipment malfunctions and ensure safe, stable, and efficient operations in humid environments.
