Used Forklifts Make the Grade

In a continuously struggling economy, it’s no surprise that companies of all sizes are turning toward the purchase of used machinery when adding to their heavy machinery.  Works Management company took  a look at used forklift purchases over the last few years. Apparently, it’s no longer just the small or midsize companies who want to expand, but don’t have the budget for new equipment.  Large scale companies are also adding used machines to their fleet as a way to save on equipment costs.

Why Used?

Financially, it is a very prudent move for companies to purchase used materials handling equipment.  It allows them to cut costs without having to take more drastic measures of diminishing their work force.  It is always important, however, to make sure that the equipment they are purchasing is in good condition.  When verifying the quality of a used forklift it is vital that the person inspecting these machines be trained and certified on both the maintenance and care, but also in the operation and handling.  The safety of the employees that will be using them depends on it.

Companies that use equipment such as forklifts are required by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) to make sure that any employee that uses such equipment has the appropriate forklift certification and training.  This training covers the operation, handling and maintenance of the equipment, ensuring that all employees, including those that may not operate the equipment, but spend much of their work day around it, are safe.

How Can Employees Receive Training?

There are a number of ways that corporations and small companies can get this training.  OSHA often offers courses at local universities.   There are online courses that are offered by independent companies and there are also packages that can be purchased that offer a combination of online and manual options.  Visit www.certifyme.net for more information.