Forklift rentals can be handy for businesses who unexpectedly need help. Maybe a forklift broke down or business picked up recently. Whatever the reason, it's important to maintain safe operations with rental forklifts, especially if it is a brand or model you aren't familiar with.

Trained Drivers Only

Forklift operators need to be properly certified with OSHA training. The cumbersome duties of the forklift make it quite a bit different than driving a car, so make sure all of the employees you have to operate the vehicle are up to date on their accreditation. It's important for safety, but experienced forklift drivers will also make your work go more efficiently.

Inspect

Check with the company who you are renting from for maintenance logs. Forklift service and repair are vital for the longevity of the vehicle. According to V-Bar Equipment, forklifts that are used every day need to be inspected at least every 90 days. They should be well-maintained, but visually inspect for any damage and cleanliness. Ask about what damage, if any, was repaired on the forklift. The rental company should have no problem supplying you with the right information, and if they don't then that's a red flag to choose another supplier.

Forklift-Proof Your Workplace

Forklifts need proper room to operate. Mark the floor with pathways specifically for the forklift, and others for your workers on foot. Make sure everyone, whether on the lift or on foot, is paying attention to their surroundings and not walking around with their eyes on the floor.

Don't Make Any Modifications

The forklift rental is not your property, and you cannot make any modifications to it. This includes overriding limits and safety features. Understand the weight and speed limits of the forklift to avoid any accidents that may lead to injury or death. Additionally, you will face increased costs for breaking any of the equipment you rent.

Slow and Steady

Once you have prepared your workplace, employees, and have the rental, you can get to work. Make sure nothing is rushed during work. Everything should be slow and steady. Remember, slow is smooth, and smooth is fast. Everyone needs their head on a swivel to make sure work goes efficiently and safely.

If you are looking for a forklift rental company to supply your business, or need a forklift service for repairs and maintenance, contact the professionals at A Lift Above Inc. They can provide well-maintained rentals, high-quality forklift repairs, and even help your employees become forklift certified.