Keeping your forklifts, powered access equipment, and other materials handling equipment (MHE) well maintained is vital for ensuring safety, minimising downtime, and staying legally compliant. Whether you’re managing a warehouse, construction site, or logistics operation, here’s what you need to know about regular servicing, LOLER compliance, and avoiding costly machine breakdowns.
Why Is Forklift Maintenance Important?
Routine maintenance helps identify wear and tear before it leads to failure. It reduces the risk of accidents, improves efficiency, and keeps equipment running smoothly.
- Prevents unexpected forklift breakdowns
- Keeps operators and site teams safe
- Protects your investment in valuable equipment
- Helps meet legal responsibilities under health and safety regulations
What Is Included In A Forklift Service?
A typical forklift service includes checks and maintenance on key components:
- Engine and hydraulics
- Brake and steering systems
- Tyres, mast, and chains
- Battery and charging system (for electric models)
- Safety features and controls
Qualified, trained engineers carry out services at scheduled intervals based on usage, ensuring all systems remain in good working order.
Understanding LOLER: What It Means For You
LOLER stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. These regulations require periodic inspections – called LOLER examinations – for any lifting equipment used in the workplace. A valid lifting equipment inspection ensures legal compliance and operational safety.
How Often Do I need A LOLER Inspection?
- If equipment is used to lift people (e.g. MEWPs, cherry pickers), inspections are required every 6 months
- For other lifting equipment like forklifts, every 12 months is standard
How Often Should You Service Your Forklift?
Service schedules vary depending on usage:
- Light use: every 500 hours or every 6 months
- Heavy use: every 250 hours or quarterly
- LOLER inspections: every 6-12 months depending on use
Following manufacturer guidelines and regulatory requirements is key to staying compliant and maintaining performance.
Common Causes Of Forklift Breakdowns
Most machine breakdowns can be avoided with routine maintenance. Common issues include:
- Worn or damaged tyres
- Low hydraulic fluid or oil
- Electrical faults or battery failure
- Overheating
- Brake or steering faults
Addressing these early reduces the risk of downtime and extends the life of your equipment.
Do Powered Access Machines Need Servicing?
Yes. Just like forklifts, powered access equipment such as scissor lifts, boom lifts, and order pickers must be serviced regularly. These machines are also subject to LOLER regulations, particularly when lifting people. Scheduled maintenance ensures safe use and helps avoid unexpected faults or legal issues.
How Can I Track My Forklift’s Maintenance Schedule?
With Briggs Equipment’s BE Portal platform you can track a variety of important information about your fleet of materials handling equipment, including machine usage and maintenance schedules.
Discover more about fleet management tools and BE Portal.
Where can I get Forklift Repairs Near Me?
Briggs Equipment offers nationwide forklift repair services through a network of expert Engineers and local depots. Whether it’s a minor fault or a major failure, our team is ready to respond quickly and get your equipment back in action. Looking for forklift repairs in the UK? Briggs has you covered.
Need servicing, inspection, or repairs? Discover more about our Truck Care service or get in touch with Briggs Equipment to arrange expert support wherever you are in the UK.
Tel: 03301 23 98 23
Email: info@briggsequipment.co.uk