In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Kevin Blacker, the Director of Operations at Alta Material Handling. Kevin shares his expert insights on the critical aspects of forklift management, emphasizing the importance of safety, maintenance, and uptime. 

Kevin explains that proper operator training is crucial for safety and suggests that facilities implement regular maintenance schedules. Kevin also discusses modern advancements in forklift technology, including LiDAR systems and automated guided vehicles. Additionally, he touches on the importance of maintaining clean and debris-free facilities to ensure operational efficiency. 

Takeaways:

•  Safety, Maintenance, and Uptime: These are critical components for every facility professional operating forklifts. Ensuring these three aspects can significantly reduce downtime and increase overall operational efficiency.
• The Importance of Having a Trained Operator: Proper training and certification of forklift operators are paramount. A trained operator is more likely to handle the equipment safely and according to regulations, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Maintenance Schedule: Adhering to a strict maintenance schedule, including daily checklists and periodic inspections, is essential. Consistent maintenance helps in identifying potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring the equipment remains operational.
• Facility Maintenance: Maintaining the facility itself, such as keeping aisles clear and floors free of debris, directly impacts the performance and longevity of forklifts. A clean environment minimizes the risk of damage to the equipment and enhances safety.
• Dusty Environments: For facilities that are particularly dusty, extra care must be taken with electric forklifts. Keeping vents and other components clean is crucial to prevent malfunctions and ensure proper functioning.
• Equipment Safety: Perimeter and zone lights are additions that enhance safety by projecting lights to create safety zones around forklifts. This visual deterrent can help prevent accidents, especially in noisy environments where auditory signals might be missed.
• Adaptability to Facility Needs: The type of equipment best suited for a facility depends on various factors, including aisle size, load types, and specific operational needs. Facilities must choose forklifts that are adaptable to their unique environments to optimize performance.

Quote of the Show:

• "If I had entered this industry earlier and experienced the growth I've seen over the last 10 years, I would have started sooner. It might sound crazy, but while I don't live and die for forklifts, I truly enjoy what I do.”

Links:

• Website: https://materialhandling.altg.com
• Resources: 
  • https://materialhandling.altg.com/parts-and-services/training/ 

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Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com