If you are a business owner or manager who uses powered industrial trucks in your operations, you may be wondering why you should bother following OSHA guideline 1910.178(q)(7). After all, it seems like a hassle to remove equipment from service when they need repairs and to keep records of the maintenance and repairs performed. Well, in this blog post, I will give you five compelling reasons why following this guideline is not only good for your safety, but also for your bottom line.
1. Avoid fines and penalties. OSHA can inspect your workplace at any time and issue citations and fines for violations of its standards. If you fail to follow 1910.178(q)(7), you could face serious consequences, such as a $13,653 fine per violation or even criminal charges for willful violations that result in death or serious injury. Do you really want to risk that?
2. Prevent accidents and injuries. Forklifts are powerful machines that can cause serious harm if they malfunction or are operated improperly. By following 1910.178(q)(7), you ensure that your equipment is in good working condition and does not pose a hazard to your employees or customers. This can prevent costly accidents and injuries that can damage your reputation, lower your productivity, and increase your insurance premiums.
3. Extend the lifespan of your equipment. Material handling equipment are expensive assets that require regular maintenance and repairs to function properly and efficiently. By following 1910.178(q)(7), you avoid neglecting or delaying the necessary service, which can lead to premature wear and tear, breakdowns, and reduced performance. By taking care of this equipment, you can extend their lifespan and get the most out of your investment.
4. Improve your efficiency and productivity. Lift trucks are essential tools for moving materials and goods in your operations. By following 1910.178(q)(7), you ensure that your they are always ready to use and perform at their optimal level. This can improve your efficiency and productivity by reducing downtime, delays, and errors caused by faulty or unreliable equipment.
5. Demonstrate your commitment to safety and quality. By following 1910.178(q)(7), you show your employees, customers, and regulators that you care about safety and quality in your workplace. This can boost your morale, loyalty, and trust among your stakeholders, as well as enhance your image and reputation in the market. This can give you a competitive edge and attract more business opportunities.
As you can see, following OSHA guideline 1910.178(q)(7) is not only a legal obligation, but also a smart business decision. By following this guideline, you can avoid fines and penalties, prevent accidents and injuries, extend the lifespan of your material handling equipment, improve your efficiency and productivity, and demonstrate your commitment to safety and quality. So what are you waiting for? A product like Start-Manager’s SM301D Wi-Fi enabled access control device with OSHA checklist can make following this guideline very simple.