Schools and institutions may not be the first places you associate with forklifts and material handling equipment. However, these machines can play an important role in keeping campus operations running smoothly. Regular inspections and maintenance are an important part of facility upkeep.
Some equipment may be shared between departments or only used for specific projects throughout the year. When a machine sits unused for an extended period, it can be easy to overlook its next inspection. Having a consistent process in place helps keep equipment in good working order and ready when your campus needs it.
Where Is Material Handling Equipment Used on Campus?
Schools and institutions often have more material handling equipment than they realize.
A maintenance department may use a forklift to unload deliveries or move materials for a building project. Athletic departments may use equipment to move large items, supplies, or other materials. Technical and vocational programs may use this equipment as part of hands-on instruction.
Universities and larger institutions may also have warehouses, storage facilities, or multiple buildings where material handling equipment is shared among departments. Understanding the different industries and facilities we serve can help schools identify the inspection and maintenance needs that apply to their equipment.
How Often Should School Equipment Be Inspected?
Inspection requirements depend on the type of equipment and how it is used.
For powered industrial trucks covered by OSHA, inspections should be completed before the equipment is put into service and at least once a day. If a truck is used around the clock, it should be inspected after each shift. Equipment that is only used occasionally should be inspected before it is put back into service.
This is particularly relevant for schools. A forklift used regularly by a maintenance department may have a different inspection routine than equipment that is only used during certain projects.
What Should Schools Look For?
Inspections should follow the requirements for the specific machine and the manufacturer's recommendations. For forklifts, inspections can include components such as tires, forks, brakes, and restraints. The equipment should also be checked during operation for problems that may not be visible while it is parked.
If a powered industrial truck is found to be unsafe, OSHA requires it to be removed from service until it has been restored to safe operating condition. Keeping up with inspection and testing services can help identify issues and address equipment needs as they arise.
Who Handles Equipment Inspections at a School?
Responsibility can become complicated when several departments use the same equipment. Facilities and maintenance teams may oversee campus equipment, while individual departments may operate their own machines. Vocational instructors may also be responsible for equipment used in their programs.
Schools should have a clear process for knowing which equipment needs to be inspected and who is responsible for each inspection. They should also have a plan for what happens when a problem is found.
What About Equipment During School Breaks?
School breaks can create another consideration. Equipment may sit unused for weeks or months between semesters, during summer break, or between projects.
Before bringing that equipment back into operation, it should be inspected and evaluated based on its condition. The inspection should also follow applicable requirements and the manufacturer's recommendations.
Taking a few minutes to check equipment before a new semester or busy season can help identify problems before they become a larger concern.
Keep Your Campus Equipment Ready
Material handling equipment may not be something students and visitors see every day, but it plays an important role in keeping your campus running. Regular inspections give the people responsible for this equipment a chance to catch issues, address maintenance needs, and keep everything in good working order.
If your school or institution uses material handling equipment, we are here to help. Contact us to learn more about our inspection services and how we can support the equipment your campus relies on!