Blocks of wood, a ramp, or a forklifter system – which is best?

There are three main methods that can be used to carry out maintenance and repairs on forklifts, blocks of wood, fork lifter ramp or a specialised forklifter system such as the one provided by TotalKare.

In an industry which prides itself on excellent health and safety procedures, it is surprising that the use of old blocks of wood to support forklift trucks during maintenance work is still widespread. All too often, workers are using an untested piece of timber to support heavy equipment such as a forklift truck above them, before proceeding to work underneath without giving it a second thought.  This is dangerous and unsafe practice!

The answer of course is to use a piece of equipment which has been designed for the job.

A forklift ramp allows the forklift to be driven on to the ramps to slightly tilt the vehicle. This allows workers access to the undercarriage for routine servicing such as oil changes or mechanical work; however, it also prevents wheel-free access so any maintenance that needs to be carried out the axles or brakes cannot be done. Yet this method doesn’t provide a solution to carry out complete maintenance and repairs on a forklift.

TotalKare’s forklifter system comprises two of its popular T8DC cable-free column lifts with infill plates and drive-on ramps to assist. By utilising TotalKare’s forklift system, it enables users to access the underneath of the forklift whilst also providing wheel-free access. The application lifts the forklift to a comfortable working height for the user which significantly reduces the chances of injury, and also prevents workers from having to lay prone on a cold, hard surface unlike the use of ramps or wooden blocks.

Since the forklift system can be stored away when not in use, it also frees up space within the workshop, enabling workshops to make best use of their working area.

So for us at TotalKare, it’s a no-brainer – the forklifter system wins out every time!