Make your tyres go the extra mile

Forklift tyres may be small, but they play a big role in terms of safety, so it's worth paying attention to them. The good news is that alongside the safety benefits comes increased longevity - and that, ultimately, means cost savings.

Forklift tyres may be small, but they play a big role in terms of safety, so it's worth paying attention to them. The good news is that alongside the safety benefits comes increased longevity - and that, ultimately, means cost savings.

It's obvious when you think about it. Tyres are what connect your truck to the ground, so anything that adversely affects their grip will also increase the risk of an accident - which is why it pays to keep a close eye on them.

There are several kinds of tyre checks you can implement.

First is the daily check by the driver. Quick and easy, this involves examining the tyres and the tread for anything unusual; checking that the rims are damage-free and there are no loose elements in the wheel itself. Heavy wear and tear or damage is a useful way of alerting managers to hazards such as rough terrain or kerbs - in which case, remedial action can then be taken.

It's also important to be aware of different tyre types. For example, if the truck has air-filled pneumatic tyres you need to inflate them to the correct pressure for the load they carry. Solid tyres, on the other hand, sport a wear indicator bar, which should be checked regularly.

Second, there's the regular fleet check. This draws attention to excessively rapid wear, enabling managers to investigate and take measures if necessary.

Finally, tyres will be included in your annual inspection, which doesn't just make sense - it's a legal requirement.

Our conclusion?

Training your drivers to spot and report damage and hazards is the most effective way to increase the life expectancy of your tyres. Performed daily, it means that problems can be resolved quickly. Paying attention to your tyres in this way pays dividends... in safety and in hard cash terms!