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Driving a forklift truck indoors is a very different experience to driving outdoors, and with this in mind we’ve put together a post to give you advice on how to operate your forklift safety outdoors.

Different Environment, Different Conditions

The outdoor environment offers a very different set of conditions that can be affected by the weather. Naturally the same safety advice adheres to wherever you use your forklift truck, but naturally you’ll be needing a few more tips on how to cope with outdoor conditions and any other obstacles you may encounter when you’re outside.

Unexpected Surprises

There are certain hazards to look out for when you’re working outdoors, such as wildlife, stray branches, rocks and stray bricks or paving. Always keep away from using electronic devices so you are not easily distracted. Keep your hands free at all times so you’re ready for anything.

Adverse Weather Conditions Can Be Hazardous

As we’ve already mentioned the weather can really influence how you operate your forklift truck. It’s usually best to check the weather before going outside. You may have to cancel or even postpone your forklift operations until the better weather is forecast, wet weather can be treacherous and both snow and rain can change the conditions in a moment.

Make Sure You’re Prepared

If you’re expecting bad weather before you go outside and even if you’re expecting mild weather, it’s still always a good idea to check your tires and fluids before embarking on any work. Look at tires, are they inflated enough? Perhaps you don’t have enough fluids, both set of problems can prove fatal. Antifreeze and oil should both be checked to see they are at the appropriate levels needed.

Communicate

It’s important when you’re going outside to make sure you have communicated your whereabouts and your timetable to other team members. Remember that any poor weather conditions and the sudden surprises that working in the outdoors can bring, makes it especially important that everyone knows your whereabouts. If there any problems then your team members should fully brief you and again conversely if you find any problems you report them to your team members, that way there are no unpleasant surprises. Also, you need to know your team members have your full attention should they see something you can’t. Communication, therefore, is of paramount importance.

Get in Touch With Dechmont Forklift Trucks

We hope you found this blog useful, and if it’s raised questions or concerns regarding forklift truck operation outdoors, then why not contact us, one of our team will be more than happy to talk things through with you. If you need any advice on the condition of your forklift truck and you don’t feel safe using it outdoors, then why not let one of us check it for you if you’re unsure. It may be that there’s only one small problem that needs to be seen to or if there’s more than one thing at fault, we can advise on what part’s needed or whether it’s more serious. It’s always better to be safe than sorry and we’re here to help, so give us a call.