(Summer Forklift Safety, Maintenance & Service by Medley Equipment Company)
As temperatures rise, so do the challenges of operating forklifts and material handling equipment. The summer heat can impact both your machines and your operators — making safety and proactive maintenance especially important. Whether you’re in a warehouse, loading dock, or an outdoor yard, here’s what to keep in mind during the hotter months.
1. Prioritize Preventive Maintenance
Summer heat can take a serious toll on your equipment. Fluids like hydraulic oil and engine coolant can degrade faster in high temperatures, and tires wear more quickly on hot surfaces. Check all fluid levels regularly and keep an eye on hoses, belts, and tires for signs of wear.
Pro tip: Schedule regular maintenance and inspections with a trusted provider like Medley Equipment Company to prevent costly downtime.
2. Protect Operators From Heat Stress
Operating a forklift in a hot environment can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke if operators aren’t properly protected. Make sure your team stays hydrated, takes regular breaks, and is familiar with the signs of heat-related illness.
Pro tip: Equip forklifts with fans or AC where possible, and provide shaded rest areas for operators.
3. Keep Batteries and Engines Cool
Heat is especially tough on electric forklift batteries and combustion engines. Overheated batteries can reduce performance and lifespan, and engines can overheat more easily if cooling systems are clogged or low on coolant.
Pro tip: Clean radiators regularly and ensure battery watering schedules are up to date.
4. Watch the Surfaces
Heat can cause outdoor surfaces — especially asphalt — to soften. This can make it more difficult for tires to grip, resulting in less stable loads and increased wear. Be cautious operating on uneven or heated surfaces and slow down around turns.
Pro tip: Consider scheduling outdoor lifting tasks earlier or later in the day when temperatures are cooler.
5. Safety Training & Awareness
Summer weather can change working conditions rapidly. Conduct refresher training on summer-specific hazards like dehydration, visibility from sun glare, and stormy weather to keep your team safe.
Ready to Beat the Heat?
Summer doesn’t have to slow you down. By staying on top of maintenance, keeping operators safe and comfortable, and adjusting your operations for the season, you’ll be better equipped to keep things moving smoothly all summer long.
Need help preparing your forklift fleet for the summer months? Reach out to the material handling experts at Medley Equipment Company — we offer maintenance, rentals, and safety guidance to keep your operations productive and safe.