Skip to main content
site map
contact
our twitterour facebook page linkdin instagram
prev
next
AM Davis Blog
Thursday, July 10 2025
Tips for Maintaining Your Forklift's Tires

Maintaining forklift tires properly can extend their life, improve safety, and enhance operator comfort. Here are some practical tips for keeping your forklift tires in good condition:

Perform Regular Inspections

  • Check for wear and damage: Look for cracks, chunking, flat spots, or excessive wear. Make tire inspections part of your normal forklift pre-shift inspection, as required by OSHA. Download our Forklift Inspection Forms HERE.

  • Inspect tread depth: On pneumatic tires, ensure there’s enough tread for traction and cushioning.

  • Look for signs of separation or embedded debris.

Maintain Proper Tire Pressure (Pneumatic Tires)

  • Check inflation daily: Under- or over-inflated tires can cause uneven wear and reduce stability.

  • Use manufacturer-recommended pressure settings.

Rotate Tires

  • Even out wear patterns by rotating tires regularly (especially on multi-wheel forklifts).

Avoid Overloading

  • Stick to the forklift’s rated capacity. Excess weight increases tire wear and risk of failure.

Drive Smart

  • Avoid sharp turns, quick starts/stops, and high speeds.

  • Reduce impact with curbs, potholes, or dock edges to prevent tire damage.

Maintain Clean Work Areas

  • Debris, sharp objects, and uneven surfaces can puncture or wear tires prematurely.

  • Sweep aisles regularly and repair uneven flooring.

Replace Worn Tires Promptly

  • Cushion tires: Replace when wear line is reached or when the tire diameter is 2 inches less than original.

  • Pneumatic tires: Replace when tread is worn down or casing is damaged.

Use the Right Tire for the Application

  • Cushion vs. pneumatic: Make sure your forklift has the correct tire type for your environment (indoor vs. outdoor).

  • Consider solid pneumatics for heavy-duty or debris-laden areas to avoid flats.

Selecting the proper tires for your forklift and maintaining them is key to creating a safe working environment for your employees, and keeping your costs down by getting the most out of each set of tires you purchase. For more information about forklift tire replacement visit our Forklift Tire Replacement page, or contact us at 804-233-0051 for information and pricing. We replace tires for ALL MAKES and MODELS.

Posted by: BarryL AT 07:56 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, June 19 2025
Keeping Your Employees Cool in Your Warehouse

As summer temperatures rise, so do the risks for heat-related illnesses—especially for workers in the material handling and warehouse industries, where physical exertion and limited airflow are part of the daily routine. Whether employees are loading trucks outdoors, managing logistics in open-air yards, or working in non-climate-controlled warehouses, staying cool isn’t just a matter of comfort—it’s a matter of safety. Employers have a responsibility to protect their teams from heat stress and related hazards. This article offers practical, proven tips to help keep your workforce safe, cool, and productive throughout the hottest months of the year.

1. Hydration Strategies

  • Water stations: Place multiple shaded water stations with coolers or dispensers filled with ice water.

  • Electrolyte options: Offer sports drinks or electrolyte powders to replenish salts lost through sweat.

  • Hydration reminders: Use signs, mobile app reminders, or supervisors to prompt workers to drink water every 15–20 minutes.

2. Shade & Rest Breaks

  • Pop-up tents or canopies: Provide shaded areas at regular intervals.

  • Portable misting tents or fans: Use cooling fans or misting systems in rest areas.

  • Mandatory cool-down breaks: Schedule 5–10 minute breaks in the shade every hour, more frequently if temps are above 90°F.

3. Clothing & Gear

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Encourage moisture-wicking clothing in light colors.

  • Cooling gear:

    • Cooling vests (ice-pack or evaporative)

    • Neck wraps or towels soaked in cold water

    • Wide-brimmed hats or brim extensions on helmets for sun protection

  • UV-protective gear to prevent sunburn and overheating.

4. Work Schedule Adjustments

  • Start earlier or split shifts: Begin work at sunrise and pause during peak heat hours (typically 12–4 p.m.).

  • Rotate tasks: Alternate between physically intense and less demanding tasks.

  • Use buddy systems to monitor for signs of heat illness.

5. Cooling Equipment

  • Battery-operated fans: Personal wearable fans for hard-to-reach sites.

  • Portable misting fans: For job trailers or staging areas.

  • Ice chest/coolers: Keep cold towels or drinks handy.

6. Training & Awareness

  • Heat illness prevention training:

    • Teach symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

    • Emphasize the importance of acclimatization.

  • Post safety signs in common areas with visual cues for heat illness symptoms and first aid steps.

7. Technology Solutions

  • Wearable sensors: Monitor core body temp or heart rate (ideal for high-risk environments).

  • Weather alert apps: Notify crews when heat advisories are issued.

8. Environmental Enhancements

  • Temporary shade structures near worksites.

  • Pavement wetting (for road crews) to reduce ambient surface temperature.

  • Tree planting (long-term) or use of artificial vertical shade barriers where possible.

Pro Tips

  • Use OSHA’s Heat Safety Tool app for personalized alerts and recommendations.

  • Gradually acclimate new or returning workers to heat over 1–2 weeks.

  • Create a heat emergency response plan, including access to cold packs, cooling areas, and emergency contact protocols.

Posted by: BarryL AT 10:20 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, May 29 2025
Forklift Safety Day 2025, What You Can Do

The Industrial Truck Association (ITA) will soon be celebrating increasing awareness to the importance of forklift safety. Forklift Safety Day is a great opportunity to review your forklift safety program and/or plan. And if you don’t have a program or plan, this would be a great opportunity to create one! Here's a link to the events taking place in Washington on June 10 and 11.

Start with Training

  • Are all of your forklift operators up-to-date on their training. Remember, forklift operators must receive refresher training every three years, and be evaluated on the equipment that they operate. 
  • How well do you know your operators? Download our Forklift Operator Questionnaire to get to know their experience operating lift equipment.
  • Learn more about Operator Training and our classes at our Training Page.

Inspections and Maintenance

Forklift Safety is No Accident

We’re here to help you maintain safety in your forklift operations by ensuring all your employees that might operate a forklift, know the limitations and dangers of forklifts AND to ensure they are all operating a peak efficiency and safety. To speak to one of our professional about any aspects of your forklift fleet’s safety or performance, just give us a call at 804-233-0051.

Posted by: BarryL AT 08:04 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, April 08 2025
Proper Fork Inspections

Your forklift’s forks bear the brunt of your loading and unloading operations. Wear and tear, or damage to either component can create a dangerous situation for your employees and anyone working around your fleet. And a 10% wear on your forks can reduce your safe lifting capacity by 20%, making your 5,000lb. forklift, a 4,000lb. forklift.

Inspecting your forklift forks regularly is essential for safety and efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to inspecting your forks properly:

1. Visual Inspection

  • Check for Cracks & Damage – Look closely for cracks, bends, or other signs of damage. Pay special attention to welds and stress points.
  • Inspect for Bending or Warping – Lay a straight edge along the fork blade to check for any bending. Even slight bends can reduce lifting capacity.
  • Look for Wear on the Heel – The fork heel (where the blade meets the shank) is a high-stress area. If it’s worn down by 10% or more, replace the fork.
  • Check for Surface Damage – Rust, deep scratches, and chipped paint could indicate hidden damage or weak spots.

2. Measure Fork Thickness

  • Use calipers to measure the thickness of the fork heel.
  • Compare it to the original thickness. If it has worn down by 10% or more, replace the fork (this reduces load capacity by about 20%).


3. Check Fork Hooks & Mounting Points

  • Ensure the hooks are not cracked or excessively worn.
  • Verify that the locking pins are functional and secure.
  • Make sure the forks are properly mounted and not loose.

4. Confirm Even Fork Height

  • Set the forks on a level surface and check if the tips are even.
  • A difference of more than 3% of fork length means one fork is more worn than the other and should be replaced.

5. Inspect Load Markings

  • Make sure the load capacity markings on the forks are visible and legible.
  • If they are missing or unreadable, you may need to replace the forks or have them re-marked.

6. Test Fork Operation

  • Engage and disengage the forks to ensure smooth movement.
  • Look for signs of unusual resistance, sticking, or instability.

7. Follow OSHA or Manufacturer Guidelines
OSHA and forklift manufacturers typically recommend daily pre-shift inspections and full inspections at least once per year (or more in high-use environments).

Learn more about the types and classes of forkls available for your forklift. If any defects or wear exceed safety limits, replace the forks immediately rather than attempting repairs. Forklifts depend on strong, reliable forks to operate safely. Contact us at 804-233-0051 and we will help you select the proper forks for your forklift and operational requirements.

Posted by: BarryL AT 09:22 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Monday, March 10 2025
Site-Specific Forklift Operator Training Considerations

Proper forklift operator training to meet OSHA requirements consists of classroom instruction by a credible source, hands-on evaluation and equipment- and facility- specific training. Most companies have a handle on the first two components. In many cases, employers also follow up with specific training using the equipment in their facilities. However, all too often, companies ignore the final aspect of ensuring full compliance with OSHA requirements. 

Each facility, be it warehousing, assembly or manufacturing, is unique and has its own set of potential hazards. These potential hazards must be addressed in terms of operating the lift equipment in them. To ignore this is to put your operation and finances in jeopardy, because an accident can occur as a result of one of these hazards. OSHA offers specific guidelines to help guide you through your facility inspection and to identify these potential hazards.  

Workplace Layout & Hazards

  • Aisle Width & Traffic Patterns – Ensure operators are trained on navigating tight spaces and avoiding collisions.
  • Pedestrian Safety – Identify high-traffic pedestrian areas and enforce safety protocols.
  • Loading Dock Safety – Train operators on loading/unloading techniques and dock-specific hazards (e.g., dock edges, trailer creep).
  • Ramps & Inclines – Address safe travel on slopes, including weight distribution and braking techniques.
  • Blind Spots & Mirrors – Ensure operators are aware of areas with limited visibility.
  • Overhead Clearances – Are there low-hanging items that an upright could damage, or doorways. Be sure your operators are aware of these.

Equipment-Specific Training

  • Type of Forklifts Used – Cover differences in controls, stability, and lifting capacity for various forklift types (counterbalance, reach truck, order picker, etc.).
  • Attachments – Train operators on attachments like clamps, rotators, or extensions and how they affect load handling and stability.
  • Pre-Use Inspections – Ensure daily checklists include site-specific concerns, such as dust, debris, or temperature extremes.

Load Handling & Material Storage

  • Types of Loads – Address how to handle materials specific to your site (e.g., pallets, bulk materials, fragile items).
  • Storage Racking & Stacking Rules – Train operators on proper stacking height, weight limits, and load stability.
  • Hazardous Materials – If applicable, cover handling and storage of hazardous materials per OSHA regulations.
  • Floor Loading Limits – Be sure your operators do not take heavy loads on to floors not rated to handle them.

Environmental & Seasonal Considerations

  • Floor Conditions – Address potential hazards like wet floors, debris, or uneven surfaces.
  • Outdoor Operation – Train for weather-related factors (rain, snow, extreme heat).
  • Ventilation Needs – If using propane or diesel forklifts indoors, ensure proper ventilation and CO monitoring.

Emergency Procedures & Compliance

  • Accident & Incident Response – Train operators on what to do in case of an accident, spill, or equipment failure.
  • Evacuation Plans – Ensure operators know exit routes and emergency shutdown procedures.
  • Regulatory Compliance – Training must align with OSHA’s Powered Industrial Truck standard (29 CFR 1910.178) and any local safety laws.

Hands-On Training & Evaluation

  • Practical Demonstration – Have operators practice on-site tasks under supervision.
  • Site-Specific Evaluations – Conduct hands-on skill assessments in the real work environment.
  • Refresher Training – Provide ongoing training for new hazards, equipment, or changes in workflow.

Visit our Training Page to learn more about our Forklift Operator Training and Train the Trainer training programs, and see our Training Schedule. There you will also find useful downloads like IC and Electric forklift inspection forms as well as a Forklift Operator Questionnaire. For more information on our training, or to schedule, please contact us at 804-233-0051. 

Posted by: BarryL AT 11:24 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, December 12 2024
The Main Benefits of Renting Equipment

There have always been benefits to renting forklifts, aerial lifts and other material handling equipment. With the advancements being made regularly, sometimes getting locked into any one type of equipment can present problems.

Over the past few years, we have seen more and more customers turning to rentals as a method to acquire equipment, as the terms can be flexible from one week, to one year, to as many years as needed. There are several primary benefits to renting equipment, and they include:

1. Cost-Effectiveness

  • Lower Upfront Costs: Renting eliminates the need for a large capital investment required to purchase forklifts.
  • Predictable Expenses: Rental agreements often include maintenance and repair costs, making budgeting simpler.

2. Flexibility

  • Short-Term Needs: Ideal for seasonal or temporary projects, such as peak warehouse seasons or one-off tasks.
  • Scalability: You can quickly adjust the number or type of forklifts based on changing operational needs.

3. Access to Modern Equipment

  • Latest Technology: Rental companies often provide newer models with advanced features, increasing productivity and safety.
  • Variety of Options: Access to different types and sizes of forklifts tailored to specific tasks.

4. Maintenance and Support

  • Reduced Downtime: Rental agreements typically include maintenance and repair services, minimizing disruptions.
  • No Depreciation Worries: Renting removes concerns about equipment value loss over time.

5. Trial Opportunities

  • Try Before You Buy: Renting allows businesses to evaluate equipment performance before committing to a purchase.

6. Compliance and Safety

  • Well-Maintained Equipment: Rental fleets are often inspected and maintained to comply with safety standards.
  • Expert Guidance: Rental providers can advise on the best equipment for specific tasks, ensuring safe and efficient operations.

7. Tax Benefits

  • Expense Deduction: Rental costs are often fully deductible as operational expenses, unlike purchased assets that depreciate over time.

8. Storage Savings

  • No Long-Term Storage Needed: Once the rental period ends, the equipment is returned, saving space and storage costs.

And just about any of the equipment we have in inventory, new, used or otherwise can be available for rent, including forklifts, aerial lifts, sweepers and scrubbers, commercial vehicles, attachments and more.

For more information on rentals, and a quote, contact us at 804-233-0051.

Learn more about renting from AM Davis

Posted by: BarryL AT 09:15 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, October 22 2024
Heat Retention Tips for Winter

Winter is upon us, and heating a warehouse or manufacturing facility can be costly. To retain heat in your warehouse during the winter and improve energy efficiency, here are several strategies:

1. Insulation

  • Roof and walls: Insulate the roof and walls to minimize heat loss. Fiberglass, spray foam, or rigid foam board are good options.
  • Doors and windows: Use weatherstripping and caulking around doors and windows to prevent drafts and leaks. Consider installing insulated doors and double-glazed windows.

2. Sealing Gaps

  • Inspect the warehouse for any gaps, cracks, or openings in walls, ceilings, or floors where heat could escape, and seal them.

3. Radiant Heaters or Infrared Heating

  • Use radiant heaters or infrared heating systems, which are efficient for large spaces and target heating specific areas without warming the air, reducing heat loss.

4. HVAC Optimization

  • Upgrade your HVAC system to ensure it's energy-efficient. Programmable thermostats can help regulate heat and avoid energy waste by adjusting temperatures during off-hours.

5. Thermal Curtains or Blinds

  • Install thermal curtains or blinds over windows and large openings to reduce heat loss through glass surfaces.

6. Strategic Layout

  • Rearrange the layout of the warehouse to direct workstations or high-traffic areas closer to heat sources, minimizing the need for overall heating.

7. Use of Air Curtains

  • Install air curtains over frequently used doors or docks. These create a barrier of air that prevents cold air from entering and warm air from escaping when doors are open.

8. Fans for Air Circulation

  • Install ceiling fans to push warm air that rises back down to floor level, improving heat distribution. Some industrial fans have a reverse setting for winter use.

9. Reflective Insulation Materials

  • Use reflective insulation materials on walls or ceilings to reflect heat back into the warehouse, enhancing the efficiency of your heating system.

10. Use Smart Thermostats

  • Implement smart thermostats that can monitor temperature zones and adjust heating as needed, optimizing energy use and maintaining consistent temperatures.

11. Employee Comfort

  • Ensure workstations and break areas are well-heated, and provide localized heating, such as space heaters, if needed, to keep workers comfortable.

12. Optimize Heating Systems

  • Use energy-efficient heaters (e.g., infrared or radiant heaters) that directly warm objects and people instead of the air, which can escape.
  • Zone heating allows you to target only the areas in use, reducing energy waste.

Implementing a combination of these strategies will help you retain heat and create a more energy-efficient environment during the winter. Would you like suggestions specific to the size or layout of your warehouse? Just give us a call at 804-233-0051.

Posted by: BarryL AT 08:48 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Monday, July 08 2024
The Effects of Heat on Your Forklift

We’ve written about what you can do to avoid overheating of your forklift’s engine. Now let’s discuss the damage that can occur if you allow it to happen.

Heat can significantly affect the performance and longevity of a forklift engine. Here are some potential effects:

  1. Overheating: Excessive heat can cause the engine to overheat, leading to a breakdown or even permanent damage. Overheating can cause parts to expand and seize up, resulting in costly repairs.

  2. Reduced Efficiency: High temperatures can cause the engine to run less efficiently. This can result in decreased power output and increased fuel consumption.

  3. Oil Breakdown: Heat can cause the engine oil to break down more quickly, reducing its ability to lubricate the engine parts effectively. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the engine components.

  4. Cooling System Stress: The cooling system has to work harder in hot conditions to maintain the engine at an optimal temperature. This can lead to wear and potential failure of components such as the radiator, water pump, and hoses.

  5. Increased Wear and Tear: High temperatures can accelerate the wear and tear on engine components, such as gaskets, seals, and hoses. This can lead to leaks and mechanical failures.

  6. Battery Performance: Heat can negatively affect battery performance and lifespan. Overheating can cause the battery to lose charge more quickly and reduce its overall efficiency.

  7. Air Intake and Combustion: Hot air is less dense than cool air, which can affect the engine’s air-fuel mixture and combustion efficiency. This can result in reduced engine performance and increased emissions.

To mitigate these effects, it’s important to perform regular maintenance, ensure proper cooling, and monitor the engine’s temperature closely, especially during hot weather conditions. Learn more about Planned Maintenance by AM Davis.

Posted by: BarryL AT 09:09 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Tuesday, June 18 2024
Forklift Engine Cooling Tips

Getting hot under the collar is about as good for your forklifts as it is for you.  Heat results in increased engine wear, part failure and lift truck maintenance expenses. Like most other facets of your operation, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and keeping your engine operating at recommended manufacturer temperatures will improve your productivity and bottom line.

If your lift trucks are inspected as part of a regular planned maintenance program with inspections being performed by trained lift truck professionals, it is likely that these elements of your cooling system are being inspected and abnormal wear is being brought to your attention. However, one oversight and the end result could be a repair bill mounting into the thousands. 

Keeping your forklift engine cool includes:

  1. Replacing engine coolant with coolant, not water – Water in your coolant system can be a very short-term patch, but can result in long-term damage to your engine and early failure. Water has a lower boiling temperature than coolant and will cause your engine to run at a higher temperature, resulting in oil viscosity breakdown and undue engine wear.
  2. Check the condition of the radiator – Check for leaks, cracks or any other signs of damage. If you see any, get it fixed as soon as possible.
  3. Clean the radiator – The radiator can get clogged with dirt, debris, and bugs. Use a soft brush or a pressure washer to clean the radiator fins.
  4. Replacing hoses before you see damage – Hoses wear over time, often from the inside out. Inspect for leaks on a regular basis and replace hoses at manufacturers recommended intervals. Leaks can result in loss of coolant over time, increase engine temperature and lower performance. Hose failure and the resulting spill can produce a hazardous situation for everyone in the vicinity.
  5. Check the condition of the water pump – Look for any signs of leaks or damage. If you see any, get it fixed as soon as possible.
  6. Check the condition of the thermostat – If the thermostat is not functioning properly, it can cause the engine to overheat. Replace it if it’s not working correctly.
  7. Keeping the pressure on – The coolant system is pressurized to raise the boiling point of the coolant. Radiator caps maintain the pressure in the system. When the cap is not functioning properly, coolant can boil out onto the floor at near normal operating temperatures, causing operators or technicians to incorrectly believe that the engine is overheating.  Pressure testing the radiator cap is the only sure way to maintain proper coolant system pressure.
  8. Keeping Your Engine Properly Belted – An engine’s fan belt creates air flow over the engine, removing external surface heat.  It also drives the circulation of the engine’s coolant through the engine, keeping the internal temperature at normal operating limits. Worn belts can reduce the flow of coolant, increasing the temperature and creating a long-term problem for your engine. Belt failure can result in immediate overheating, engine damage and an expensive repair. Have your belts inspected for wear and replace them at factory suggested intervals to ensure proper coolant flow inside and out.
  9. Inspecting your engine’s fan – Driven by the fan belt to perform, a properly operating engine fan allows for the normal conduction of heat from the inside of the engine to the surface where the fan whisks away the excess heat. A cracked or damaged fan can reduce the effectiveness of the fan and increase engine temperature. Be sure to inspect the fan for wear and damage and replace it with a manufacturer’s suggested replacement. Heavy steel fans can produce undue wear on the engine and reduce the fan’s capacity to remove heat, or even create its own heat by increased demand for energy by a heavier fan.
  10. Regular Coolant Fluid Replacement – Like oil, cooling system fluid has a recommended maximum useful life, and that can vary widely depending upon how your system was serviced and the type of coolant used to replace your current fluid.  Every engine and application is different so don’t solely rely on factory recommended intervals for a flush and refill. Consult with us about an application survey and we can assist you in setting a schedule for regular coolant replacement that makes sense for YOUR operation.
  11. Avoid idling for extended periods – Idling for long periods of time can cause the engine to overheat. If your operator is pausing operation for more than 15 seconds, consider having them turn the forklift off. This also saves some fuel and reduces emissions.
  12. Park in the shade – Whenever possible, park in the shade to keep the engine cool.

If your lift trucks are not on a regularly scheduled Planned Maintenance program, they should be. Let us take the worry out of what and when to inspect, letting you tend to the business of what you do best. Contact Us Here or give us a call at 804-233-0051.

Posted by: BarryL AT 10:45 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, May 16 2024
Keeping Your Warehouse and Employees Cool This Summer

Ensuring that warehouse employees stay cool during the summer is of paramount importance for several reasons.

  • Firstly, maintaining a comfortable working environment contributes to employee well-being, morale, and productivity. Excessive heat can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and heat-related illnesses, affecting employees’ ability to perform tasks efficiently and safely.
  • Secondly, prioritizing employee health and safety by providing cooling measures reduces the risk of heat-related incidents such as heatstroke or dehydration, promoting a safer workplace overall.

Additionally, a cool working environment demonstrates care and consideration for employees’ welfare, fostering a positive work culture and improving employee retention. By investing in measures to keep warehouse employees cool, businesses can enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism, and create a more supportive and conducive work environment for their teams.

Things you can do to help cool your warehouse and employees this summer include:

  • Insulation: Ensure that the warehouse is well insulated to prevent heat from entering. This includes insulating walls, ceilings, and doors.

  • Ventilation: Install proper ventilation systems such as fans, vents, or air conditioning units to circulate air and remove hot air from the warehouse.

  • Reflective Roofing: If possible, use reflective roofing materials that can reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption into the building.

  • Shade and Trees: Plant trees or install shades outside the warehouse to provide natural shade and reduce heat transfer through walls and roofs.

  • Heat-Emitting Equipment: Keep heat-emitting equipment away from sensitive areas or install heat shields to redirect heat away from the main workspace.

  • Cooling Zones: Create designated cooling zones within the warehouse where employees can take breaks and cool down.

  • Hydration Stations: Set up hydration stations with water coolers or dispensers throughout the warehouse so that workers can easily access cold water and stay hydrated.

  • Cool Break Areas: Create designated cool break areas with shade, fans, and seating where workers can take regular breaks to cool down and rest.

  • Use Reflective Clothing: Provide workers with light-colored, breathable, and moisture-wicking clothing that reflects sunlight and helps keep them cool.

  • Use Coolants: Use evaporative cooling systems or coolants like misting fans or wet mats to lower the ambient temperature in specific areas.

  • Schedule Work: Schedule heavy-duty tasks or work that generates a lot of heat during cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or evenings.

  • Regular Maintenance: Maintain HVAC systems regularly to ensure they are functioning optimally and providing efficient cooling.

  • Monitor Indoor Temperatures: Install temperature monitoring systems to track indoor temperatures and take proactive measures when temperatures rise excessively.

  • Employee Awareness: Educate employees about heat-related illnesses, provide training on staying cool, and encourage them to stay hydrated and take breaks in cooler areas.

  • Encourage Communication: Encourage workers to communicate any discomfort or signs of heat-related stress promptly so that appropriate action can be taken.

Equipment you can install and items you can purchase to help minimize heat in your material handling and warehousing operation include:

  • Industrial Fans: High-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans and industrial ceiling fans can help improve air circulation and create a cooling breeze throughout the warehouse.

  • Evaporative Coolers: Also known as swamp coolers, evaporative coolers use water evaporation to lower the ambient temperature. They are effective in dry climates and can be used as a cost-effective cooling solution.

  • Portable Air Conditioners: For specific areas or temporary cooling needs, portable air conditioners can be used to cool down workspaces quickly.

  • Heat-Reflective Roofing: Installing heat-reflective roofing materials can reduce heat absorption into the warehouse, keeping it cooler during hot weather.

  • Shade Structures: Outside the warehouse, shade structures such as awnings, canopies, or trees can provide natural shade and reduce heat transfer to the building.

  • Cooling Vests and Personal Cooling Devices: Providing employees with cooling vests, neckbands, or personal fans can help them stay cool while working in hot conditions.

  • Thermal Insulation: Proper insulation of walls, ceilings, and doors can prevent heat from entering the warehouse, reducing the workload on cooling equipment.

  • Misting Systems: Misting fans or misting systems can be installed to create a fine mist that evaporates quickly, lowering the surrounding air temperature.

  • Temperature Monitoring Systems: Installing temperature monitoring systems can help track indoor temperatures and optimize the use of cooling equipment for energy efficiency.

Choosing the right combination of equipment based on your warehouse’s size, layout, climate, and specific cooling needs can significantly improve working conditions during the summer months.

Visit OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention website to learn more about heat awareness and what you can do to prevent heat illness in your workforce this summer. Having a happy, healthy workforce is key to long-term productivity and performance.

Posted by: BarryL AT 01:08 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email