Using forklifts and attachments in cold weather
As winter approaches, businesses that rely on forklifts face some unique challenges. At Invicta, we understand the importance of keeping your operations efficient, regardless of what the weather is doing. In this guide, we’re exploring how to operate forklifts and attachments safely and effectively in cold weather, taking a look at the essential practices and attachments that can make all the difference.
The challenges of cold weather forklift operations
Operating forklifts in cold weather isn’t just about combating the cold. It also involves navigating icy surfaces, dealing with potentially reduced battery efficiency and ensuring the safety and comfort of the forklift operator. There are plenty of challenges, but with the right knowledge and equipment, you can stay productive throughout the winter months.
Best practices for operating forklifts in cold weather
Warming up: Always allow your forklift time to warm up before operation. This helps the hydraulic fluid reach the right temperature and ensures smooth operation.
Regular maintenance: Cold weather can make existing issues worse. Stick to a regular maintenance schedule, paying extra attention to batteries, which can lose capacity in cold conditions.
Tyre care: Ensure your forklift tyres are properly inflated and in good condition. Consider using snow chains for extra traction on icy surfaces.
Operator training: Provide specific training for cold weather operations. This should include recognising potential hazards and proper use of winter-specific attachments.
Indoor/outdoor transitions: When moving between heated warehouses and cold outdoor areas, allow time for your forklift to adjust to prevent condensation from building up.
Winter forklift attachments: The right attachments can make all the difference when it comes to operating in winter, helping your business stay productive and safe.
Essential cold weather forklift attachments
At Invicta, we’ve developed a range of attachments specifically designed to tackle winter conditions:
- Snow ploughs: Clears vast areas of snow in minutes and doubles as a year-round yard scraper. Choose from the adjustable blade snow plough, the fork-mounted snow plough or the snowplough with polyethylene blade.
- Hydraulic gritters: Our fork-mounted hydraulic gritter quickly spreads salt across large areas with adjustable width for precise distribution.
- Mini towable spreaders: Perfect for smaller areas and targeted gritting, the mini towable spreader is compatible with forklifts and ATVs.
- Fork-mounted sweepers: The forklift sweeper/brush, also known as the Basil, clears light to medium snow quickly and prevents ice formation by removing slush.
- Boot wash stations: While not a forklift attachment, our boot wash stations are crucial for stopping snow and salt at the door, keeping indoor areas clean and safe.
Safety first: cold weather considerations
Safety is more important than ever when operating forklifts in cold weather. Here’s what to look out for:
- Visibility: Ensure all lights are functioning correctly and consider additional lighting for dark winter days.
- Slip prevention: Use our boot wash stations when heading indoors and create a comprehensive ice management plan using gritters and spreaders.
- Battery care: Cold temperatures can significantly impact battery performance. Make sure your forklift’s batteries are fully charged.
- Load stability: Be extra cautious with load stability on slippery surfaces.
Common questions about operating forklifts in cold weather
To answer some common queries about cold weather forklift operations, we’ve compiled this quick Q&A:
Do forklifts need to be warmed up?
Yes, it’s important to warm up your forklift before use in cold weather. This allows the oil to circulate and the hydraulic fluid to reach the right temperature, ensuring smooth operation and preventing any damage.
Can you use a forklift in snow?
Yes, you can use a forklift in snow, but always with caution. Make sure your operators are trained for snow and ice conditions and equip your forklift with the right attachments and extras, like snow chains for better traction or ploughs or sweepers for clearing paths and yards.
Can you plough snow with a forklift?
Yes! With the right attachment, a forklift can be an efficient snow plough At Invicta, we offer a range of snow plough attachments designed specifically for forklifts. Take a look at the options.
Can you put snow chains on a forklift?
Yes, you can put snow chains on a forklift when operating in snow or ice. It’s recommended as it provides extra traction that improves safety and efficiency.
Compliance in winter operations
At Invicta, we’re committed to helping you stay compliant, even in challenging conditions. Our attachments are built to comply with industry standards, including LOLER guidance. We also offer a Thorough Examination service, which can be conducted all year round to ensure your equipment remains safe and efficient.
As winter approaches, scheduling a Thorough Examination is a great first step to ensuring your equipment is safe, compliant and ready to see your business through the colder months. Our trained CFTS Inspector will visit your site to conduct a comprehensive assessment of your equipment. You’ll receive a detailed report outlining the condition of your equipment, including any necessary repairs or maintenance recommendations.
Our team can handle minor repairs on-site. If more extensive off-site repairs are needed, we can arrange for the equipment to be taken off-site and returned, so your operations continue to run smoothly throughout the winter.
Regular Thorough Examinations not only help you stay compliant but also enhance safety and efficiency – so you can tackle the challenges of winter with confidence.
Find out more: Forklift Thorough Examination testing service
Why choose Invicta?
As the UK’s largest manufacturer of forklift attachments, we bring over 30 years of expertise to every product we manufacture. Our extensive stock means we can respond quickly to your needs, typically despatching items immediately and delivering within two to three days.
We’re also problem solvers. Our team listens to your needs and considers your working environment to make sure our recommended attachments are fit for purpose. Whether you need a standard attachment or you’re looking for a bespoke solution, we’re here to help your business succeed even in the coldest conditions.
Are you prepared for winter?
Don’t let winter weather slow down your operations. With the right preparation, training and forklift attachments, you can keep your operations safe and efficient through winter.
For more details about the winter forklift ice and snow attachments featured in this blog, contact us on 0113 277 1222 or sales@invicta-attachments.co.uk and start preparing for efficient cold weather operations.
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