How to cut material handling losses

IIANAGEMENT rarely thinks of lUl materials handling operations as affecting their company's overall profitability. But, there is a way to cut costs here that can ultimately improve a company's profitability.

"Operator training can increase a company's profitability by reducing losses due to inventory damage and by making materials handling operations more efl'icient," says Hank Unck, manager, marketing training at Hyster Co. "Furthermore, operator training enhances on-the-job safety for employees."

Being aware of how a powered industrial truck operates is the first step toward safe, eflicient, productive materials handling operations.

"Operating a lift truck is more complicated than driving a car because operators must maneuver the equipment in restricted spaces, travelwith fragile loads, and move cumbersome loads up and down or in and out ofstorage areas," explains Unck.

Actual on-truck training will help improve these maneuvers by fostering an understanding of how the lift truck operates and by teaching proper operating procedures, which will minimize bad handling habits. Moreover, an awareness of proper versus improper operating procedures enables the operator to correct problems before they become serious.

Even experienced lift truck operators can benefit from a refresher training course, "especially if the company has recently changed to a different type of equipment," he says.

Just as motorists observe rules of the road to promote safety on the highways, operators of powered industrial trucks must observe rules of the warehouse to ensure safety in materials handling applications.

Do look where you're going, whether you are traveling forward or reverse.

Don't overload the truck. A load that is too heavY can cause the truck to tip forward. Boxes or pallets stacked above the load backrest can fall and result in products damage or operator injury.

Do stay clear of the lift mechanism. Never put hands, arms, head or legs through the upright or near the carriage of lift chains.

Story at a Glance

Ways to train lift truck drivers to avoid inventory and equip ment damage, injuries, loss time lower insurance costs, less inventory shrinkage reflect wellon bottom line.

Don't ride on the load forks. Forklift trucks are designed for handling goods, not carrying people. If someone riding on the front forks falls off, he could be seriously injured.

Do carry a load uphill when operating a truck on an incline so it won't slide off the forks.

Don't jump offa lift truck that tips over. It is safer to hold firmly to the steering wheel, brace your feet and lean forward and away from the point of impact.

Productivity is directly related to the safe, efficient movement of goods, which can be achieved through operator training and practice. Improper handling of goods, improper truck operating procedures or truck accidents can cost a company thousands of dollars in a verY short period of time in terms of damaged goods, damaged lift trucks and personal injuries. In addition, recurring accidents and employee injuries can lead to increased insurance costs for the employer.

Operator training is required by law, but it also promotes material handling effrciency and employee safety, reduces loss and shows uP positively on your bottom line.