Fork Lift Association & Thorough Examination

Forklift Safety Tips for Winter Weather


Winter is officially here and temperatures are quickly dropping. When working in warehouses and operating forklifts, cold weather can pose several problems.


Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to change the winter weather conditions – but there are a few forklift safety tips during cold weather that we can recommend:


Correct clothing


In order to safely operate a forklift, operators should wear tight fit clothing, a high-visibility jacket, safety shoes, and a hard-hat if appropriate. When cold weather strikes, ensure that forklift operators are wearing safe winter clothing. Bulky jackets, pants, and scarves should be removed before operating the equipment.


Inspect equipment


Forklifts that are used constantly need to be examined at the end of each shift. Cold weather can affect a lot of things – including the parts and operation of a forklift. For example, sudden drops in temperature can decrease tire pressure or cause hoses to crack. These parts and components, among others, should be inspected before a forklift is used.


Slow down and stay back


As conditions can get slippery and icy in very cold conditions, it is crucial to be cautious while operating a forklift in winter weather. While true in any weather, it is pertinent that forklift operators navigate the equipment cautiously.


Your Local Forklift Supplier


At Beds & Bucks Forktrucks, we have been supplying new, used and rental forklifts to the local areas for more than three decades. From our depot in Newport Pagnell, we stock a huge selection of equipment from notable manufacturers Hyster, Combilift and Aisle-Master as well as many more.


Forklift Safety Tips for Winter Weather