At Fallsway we are committed to keeping your equipment up and running at the lowest total cost. This is why we offer a complete forklift support package including forklift repair and service, hauling and delivery services, forklift training, forklift parts and accessories, and much more! Get familiar with our award-winning forklift support in today's blog.

Forklift Service and Repair

When it comes to servicing your forklifts, we know that you want the job done right the first time. That's why we employ some of the highest trained technicians in the industry. With this experience comes the knowledge and expertise to solve any issue. We understand that when a forklift goes down our job is to get it back up and running as fast as possible. That's why we have a large mobile fleet of fully stocked service vans allowing us to come to you for most repairs. On average, we have a 4-hour response time for downed forklifts.

We offer service contracts for preventative maintenance and total maintenance for forklifts. Preventative maintenance is a flat rate charge for a scheduled inspection and lubrication program. The flat rate will cover the travel and labor portion of the maintenance, but not the parts themselves. We offer a follow-up letter and quote for any additional items that would need attention. Our total maintenance contract offers a complete maintenance and repair package for your forklift fleet. This contract is a flat rate predetermined monthly charge that would handle any normal repairs and also any scheduled maintenance that may be needed on the lift truck. This contract is tailored to your operation and equipment needs and all repair risks are the responsibility of Fallsway.

Click the link if you are looking to get familiar with our forklift service and repair capabilities.

Forklift Hauling and Delivery

Flexibility is key and that's why we employ a full line of DOT certified truck drivers to ensure your equipment arrives when you need it. We have the capabilities of hauling up to 45,000 lbs with the ability to unload or ground load as needed, eliminating any need for a dock. We service forklifts in 26 counties in Ohio, 2 counties in PA, and 2 counties in West Virginia as well.

Are you interested to see if we cover your county? Use this link to find your local forklift equipment service provider. 

Forklift Parts and Accessories

Another aspect of being a complete forklift equipment service provider is by offering high-quality forklift parts. At Fallsway, we put the customer first, and the best way of doing that is by providing parts as quickly as possible. Our Parts Department works to keep your forklifts running longer, at maximum efficiency, while also providing exceptional service. We understand that every situation is different, that's why we work with you to find the most optimal solution. Our Parts Department will customize your experience while also responding quickly to any order or quote requests. Once you work with us once, we have your order history and reporting saved so any future orders are as easy as a phone call.

Some of the services our Parts Team provides are forklift parts, forklift tires, forklift battery and chargers, forklift attachments, and much more! We also offer Parts for our other divisions including truck equipment, emergency equipment, towing equipment, and unloader equipment. Click here to read on.

Forklift Training

One way we help your business run smoothly is by offering forklift training courses. Our training programs are available to provide your operators with the fundamental knowledge of lift trucks addressing key issues such as:

• Lift Truck Fundamentals
• Stability, balance, and capacity
• Pre-operation inspection / post-operation inspection
• General rules of the "road"
• Load handling techniques
• Proper Refueling Practices
• Battery Maintenace

We have a proven track record of reducing accidents and by meeting all OSHA forklift safety requirements we have you covered. We have various options to meet your forklift training requirements including:

• Classroom training offered at our Akron location on the first Tuesday of every month
• On-site training is offered and we will drive out to you and perform training at your location
• Online training is also available, save time and enjoy the convenience of working around your schedule

At Fallsway we are here to help. If you have any questions about our blog, or just want to get in touch, contact us below.

Today’s blog covers several forklift safety tips you can use to help keep your operators, pedestrians, and workers safe. As important and useful as forklifts are to your business, they are equally as dangerous. OSHA estimates over 120,000 forklift-related accidents occur each year with just over one million forklifts in operation in the United States. Knowing how to safely operate a forklift is key to reducing injuries and potential fatalities.  It is imperative to make safety a top priority. Here are a few tips and best practices to keep in mind when developing your companies forklift safety program:

1. Operator Must be Certified

Simply put, operating forklifts should only be done by individuals who have been properly trained and have the proper license to operate the equipment.  Not all forklifts are the same and neither is every forklift license.  If your operators are not already certified, contact our Forklift Training department today.

2. Know your Responsibilities as a Forklift Operator

• As a forklift operator, you must comply with all government regulations and any company policies.
• Wear personal protective equipment when working with hazardous materials, such as fuel or chemicals.

3. Wear Appropriate Clothing

• Proper forklift operator attire can include safety/steel toe shoes, hard hats, gloves, eye and ear protection, high visibility clothing, as well as any additional protection that may be required depending on the environment.  Having your operators tuck any loose clothing away can also help prevent injury as loose clothing could be caught on the machine, racking, or other obstacles.  Your facility should clearly define what PPE is required when operating a forklift and strictly enforce those rules. 

4. Inspect the Machine Before Every Use

• Each operator should conduct an inspection of their forklift before putting it into service.  These inspections should be shared with a shift supervisor to identify and log any problems or defects of the machine. Any equipment that is damaged or needs repaired should not be operated until it is fixed. Some common items on an inspection checklist are:
  • Test Operating Controls
  • Check Mast and Overhead Guard
  • Check Tire and Fluid levels
  • Check for any leaks
  • Check for any damage to the forks
  • Look for any other potential hazards or problems
• If you have equipment that needs repaired, or need to set up a planned maintenance contract, contact our Forklift Service Department today.

5. Starting the Forklift

• Use any steps or handguards to lift yourself properly into the forklift.  Keep three points of contact at all times.
• Ensure that all controls are within reach and the seat and mirrors are adjusted to the operator’s needs.
• Buckle up! Seatbelts save lives in cars and forklifts.

6. Be Mindful of your Environment

• Even if you’re not operating a forklift, it is important to stay safe and mindful on your job site.
• Ensure safety signs are at all intersections where vehicles and pedestrians may meet.
• Implement a floor marking system in your facility to separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic as much as possible.
• Make eye contact with a lift truck operator so that you both acknowledge each other’s presence.
• If you are looking to improve warehouse safety, and want to speak to a professional at Fallsway, contact us today.

7. Monitor your Speed

• The most important tip to improve safety and reduce accidents is to never exceed the speed limit that has been established by your safety team.  Operate at safe speeds and your accidents will lower accordingly.
• Take corners and turns slowly to reduce the chance of tipping.
• Stopping and accelerating should be done slowly and at a safe pace.

8. Ensure Safe Visibility

• Whenever possible, always drive with your load trailing the machine as your visibility might be impacted by the load on your forks.
• Approach intersections and doorways with extreme caution.
• Utilize safety equipment such as strobe lights, blue spotlights, curtain lights, and alarms to let others around you know a forklift is in operation nearby.
• Be careful of your surroundings when navigating any ramps or inclines.

9. Avoid Fast Movements

• Going along with tip 7, avoiding fast movements, and maintaining a safe speed will ensure a smooth operation.
• Sudden turns can be dangerous in many ways, including losing a load, tipping the forklift, danger to surrounding people, and many other hazards. Play it safe and avoid any quick movements.

10. Forklifts carry Pallets, Not People

• Operators should not allow other operators to “catch a ride” on the equipment unless another seat is fitted.
• A forklift should not be used to elevate a person unless a OSHA- approved forklift work platform safety cage is being utilized.

11. Ensure the Load is Secured

• You should not move or turn a forklift until the forks are fully under the load. You should not lift a load with one fork.
• Ensure pallets and skids can withstand the weight of the load. Check the data plate of the vehicle and ensure that it can carry the weight of the load.

12. Parking the Forklift

• Be sure to always park the equipment in a designated area.
• Ensure the forks are fully lowered, apply the parking brake, turn off the engine, and then remove the key from the ignition.

Summary

Following these tips can help reduce accidents at your workplace. Remember, safety starts with you and by leading by example you can help maintain a strong safety culture. Always remember to brush up on your safety tips each year, safety processes change often and there will always be ways to improve.

Let us know in the comments below your thoughts, we want to hear from you! Do we have any additional tips you would add? If you have any questions or concerns about any of our blogs, contact us!

When you need a quality dump body, look no further than Air-Flo. A leader in manufacturing quality truck equipment, Air-Flo provides top-of-the-line steel and aluminum dump bodies. The Pro-Class Series Body combines a sleek look with rugged durability. This body features dual side wall construction with a full welded boxed top rail providing quality strength. The smooth design of this model will perfectly match any chassis and will give you years of dependable service.

Some features of the Pro-Class Series Body include:

• Horizontal lines and gussets with smooth rounded corners for a modern finish.
• Body sides are constructed with 2 sheets of 10 ga. Steel for rugged durability.
• Double-wall sides form a fully boxed top rail and include a 45-degree sloped, dirt shedding subrails.
• The 94” inch wide body is fully welded, with 10 ga. steel throughout.
• Quick-Latch® tailgate latching system makes tailgate operations a breeze.
• The body under structure is built with 3” structural steel channels spaced every 12” and supported by 5” structural channel longitudinal.
• High lift capacity scissor hoists with a factory-installed body prop are standard.

Interested in learning more about our Air-Flo Steel Dump bodies? Contact us today!

When you have made the decision to purchase a new block truck for your fleet, do yourself a favor and plan ahead with a replacement date for that unit. I have seen all too many times 15- and 20-year-old trucks come in for repair and we find frame damage from corrosion that can only be repaired correctly by replacing the frame rails. This is an expensive repair that most often does not get completed and the unit is “parked out back” or parted out. Many times, I am then asked to remove the block boom, make all necessary repairs and install on a new chassis. That sounds reasonable but remember that the boom base was bolted to the frame and exposed to the same elements as the bad frame. It is now thinner and fatigued from constant use. The boom sections have become arched, wearing out the new roller assemblies much quicker. Now you need a new block truck,  YESTERDAY! Do not let this happen to you, plan ahead and contact us today.

The days of keeping a truck 25 to 30 years are over. Brine and other De-Icing agents have been shortening the life of the equipment that runs up and down our roads. I advise all of our customers to have a replacement plan and stick to it. 8 to 10 years is very common, but many rotate at 5 or 6 years. You may be surprised what you can get for a clean, well-maintained 8 – 10-year-old block truck. Currently, there are very few available on the market. If your application can use a single rail frame rather than a double, I recommend it. Manufacturers today have many frame options available. If a double frame is needed, just keep it clean and apply a quality rust inhibitor on a regular basis.
Good Luck and Happy Planning!

-Bret Meadows

Interested in learning more? Contact Bret today!

Seemingly indestructible, forklift forks are often forgotten about when considering equipment maintenance and workplace safety. However, considering how much weight they lift, normal wear, and damage they endure every day, it is important to know how to inspect and when to replace your forklift forks.

If a damaged or worn-down fork is not noticed and replaced, it is in jeopardy of snapping and dropping the load, which would result in:

• Damaged goods
• Injure operator
• Forklift downtime

Fork Inspection

Not only are regular inspections the best way to proactively avoid costly factors associated with work failure, but they are also required by OSHA and the Industrial Truck Standards Foundation (ITSDF).

Firstly, OSHA requires daily inspection of the condition of the forks as part of their Forklift Pre-Operational Inspection Checklist. ITSDF requires a yearly inspection, repair, and testing of forks done by a knowledgeable and trained individual (ANSI/ITSDF B-56.1).

When to Replace Forks

Damaged

Replace forklift forks when there is damage, including:

• Surface cracks
• Bent shank, blade, or hooks
• Uneven blade height
• Non-operational position lock

Wear

The constant loading/unloading of cargo and repositioning of forks will cause the metal on the blade, shank, and hooks to wear down over time. Harder to identify than damage, fork wear requires use of a caliper to determine if replacement is necessary.

How to Find the Wear of the Fork Blade:
Step 1: Set caliper by measuring thickness of fork shank
Step 2: Without adjusting caliper, position caliper over forklift arm blade (2” from inside of heel)

If back teeth of caliper pass freely over blade of fork, replace the fork.
If back teeth of caliper hit the blade, the fork does not need replaced.

How to Find the Wear of the Fork Hooks:

With nearly 30% of forks failing to meet safety standards, inspecting and knowing when to replace forklift forks can save your operation significant time and money.

Schedule a FREE inspection or order forklift forks today!

Before diving into why your operation should consider adding a turret truck to your fleet, the first order of business is answering the question, “What is a turret truck?”. Turret trucks are very specialized machines for very-narrow-aisle (VNA) applications. Immediately drawing attention due to its unique design, there are traditionally two options available, man-up, the more common option where the carriage and operator are lifted to retrieve and store pallets, and man-down, where the operator stays down while picking orders.

Increase Warehouse Capacity

Is your operation limited because you don’t have enough room to store inventory? Turret trucks are designed to increase warehouse capacity by reducing aisle widths, thus making room for more aisles.  Since the forks are mounted on a smaller front mast that can rotate 180 degrees, the operator has access to both sides of the racking aisle without rotating the unit. VNA turret trucks can reduce aisle width by 50%. Save space and increase warehouse capacity with turret trucks!

Increase Productivity

With a pallet throughput 3x as high as the standard counterbalance forklift, no equipment can handle more pallets and loads than turret trucks. However, not only are turret trucks implemented in operations that are looking to increase volume and productivity, but also for those looking to cut costs. When turret trucks are added to a fleet, fewer operators are needed to produce the same output. Whether looking to increase productivity or cut costs, turret trucks are designed to optimize your operation.

Turret Trucks from Jungheinrich

Selling more turret trucks worldwide than Crown, Raymond, or Yale, Jungheinrich is your industry leader for quality and cost-savings. German designed, you will find unmatched energy efficiency, productivity, ergonomics, and intelligence in each Jungheinrich turret truck.

Energy Efficiency

A pioneer in AC forklift motors, Jungheinrich has unmatched technology and the most experience relating to energy efficiency. For example, they are the only turret truck manufacturer on the planet that can guarantee two shifts (16 run hours) on one battery charge. Regardless if your operation is one or two shifts, you will need to charge your battery less frequently, resulting in a significant increase in battery life and cost savings. In addition, exclusively Jungheinrich offers reluctance AC motors, reducing energy losses by up to 50% when driving, steering, and using hydraulics. Energy efficiency saves you money, and none do it better than Jungheinrich.

Productivity

For Jungheinrich, performance is just as important as energy efficiency. Not only do they manufacture turret trucks with the highest reach on the planet at an impressive 708”, but put head-to-head against competitors, Jungheinrich is also more productive and has a higher lift speed. They work smarter so you can work harder. Enjoy unmatched productivity and performance with turret trucks from Jungheinrich.

Ergonomics

Turret trucks from Jungheinrich increase efficiency and performance through operator comfort and optimized design. Your operators are guaranteed to love the spacious operator compartment with extensive legroom and a full suspension seat with adjustable armrests. In addition to a flexible concept for comfortable sitting or standing, Jungheinrich also implements intuitive and comfortable operator controls.

Intelligence

Jungheinrich Warehouse Navigation is a form of semi-automation that uses RF transponders to pinpoint and navigate to the next order in the quickest time and using the least amount of energy. Implementing this technology could increase productivity by up to 25%. Warehouse Navigation can be to be integrated with your warehouse management system, eliminating operator errors and make every operator a top performer!

When choosing a turret truck, Jungheinrich is a clear choice. Experience the difference for yourself and demo against the competition. Not only will your operators love it, but the increase in productivity and cost savings will take your operation to the next level. Contact Fallsway today to find the perfect fit for your operation!

Safe forklift operation is essential for any business. An important detail to know when operating a forklift is the capacity of your forklift limit. Below we will explain what forklift load capacity is, as well as what you need to know to safely operate your forklifts. 

Safety is a top priority for any business owner and operators should:

• be trained
• know safety devices and functions of the lift truck.
• use the forklift as intended to be used.
• not drive recklessly.
• space out forks properly.
• never exceed the rated capacity of the forklift.

What is Capacity and How to Determine the Weight You Can Carry?

OSHA requires that ALL forklifts have an updated data plate that indicates information like capacity, load center, and maximum lift height. Loads can come in various shapes and sizes, not just symmetrical boxes. Forklift max capacity is determined by the load center of the product you’re picking up. 

Figuring out the maximum weight your forklift can carry, you must consider several factors.  The load size, position, weight distribution, and the stability of the truck all affect lifting capacity. As an example, if you have a 4,000-pound rectangular box standing up vertically, the forklifts load capacity will be higher than if it was positioned horizontally with the long end of the box overhanging the forks. That is why the center of your loads plays a critical part in determining the maximum capacity.

Risks to Exceeding Forklift Capacities:

Several life-threating hazards can occur if you go over the maximum capacity. Some included are:

• Dropping the load.
• Collision.
• Loss of steering control.
• Tipping over.

To avoid these hazards, operators should:

• know where the forklift’s load capacity plate located.
• understand a load’s weight, shape, size, and position.
• have the heaviest part of the load closer to the mast.
• keep the distance from the front wheels to the load’s center of gravity minimum.

Note that having different forklift attachments will change the characteristics of how each forklift will operate, including the load capacity. It is crucial to keep each data tag updated with each attachment and have operators understand the de-rated capacity of the forklift so they can know their limitations.

How to Locate Load Capacity Data

All forklifts have a load capacity data plate. They are usually within viewing distance when the operator enters the forklift, but this varies depending on the make and model of the forklift. The plate differs and may display some or all of the following information:

• General information like brand, model, serial number, and forklift type.
• Information on components and parts: Tire type and sizes, mast type, and tire tread.
• Forklift and battery weight.
• Attachments in weight calculation.
• Tilt degree.
• Load capacity.
• Load center distances.
• Max lifting height.

Lift trucks with high masts will have a different capacity rating for the various heights; as an operator, you should refer to the manufacturer’s capacity plate for the mast height ratings.

Avoiding Load Capacity Issues

These are some of the basic rules you can follow to avoid running into forklift load capacity issues and creating a safer work environment.

• Train operators to check load capacity plates and never make assumptions.
• Never go over the forklifts stated load capacity.
• Purchase equipment with load capacities slightly greater than you need for the job.
• Instruct operators to read and follow instructions in the operator’s manual.
• Make sure each forklift has the correct information and is legible to read.
• Travel at a safe speed that will maintain control of the forklift with and without a load.
• Keep the load at a safe traveling height of 2-4 inches from the ground. 

Increasing operator awareness and proper training will prevent accidents in the workplace. 

If you still have questions regarding your forklifts load capacity, contact one of our Forklift Specialists for assistance! 

Who is Snorkel?

Founded in 1959, Snorkel started out as a firefighting equipment company that developed an aerial work platform specifically designed for aerial firefighting and rescue work. They quickly made a name for themselves in the industry, setting the standard for aerial firefighting equipment. About 20 years later, Snorkel entered the construction and industrial markets with its first telescopic boom lifts. Premiering the first aluminum upper booms and platforms in the industry, this new product line utilized technology from their firefighting equipment, including state-of-the-art hydraulic and electrical systems, to become an industry leader. Since then, Snorkel has continued to grow and currently manufactures aerial lifts of all types and sizes. Whether you are looking for a scissor lift or boom lift, Snorkel has you covered. Also, if you have a unique need, they work with you to provide a custom solution.

Snorkel Equipment

Snorkel has a wide range of equipment based on your specific needs and application.

Scissor Lifts

Choose from a full line of scissor lifts suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. Ranging from low-level, rough terrain, or electric, the Snorkel line of scissor lifts spans maximum working heights from 12 ft. 6 in. to 45 ft. and maximum platform capacities from 500 lbs. to 1,500 lbs.

Boom Lifts

Whether you are looking for articulated, electric, telescopic, or towable, the Snorkel family of boom lifts combines power and precision for efficient working at height. Ranging from 41 ft. 9 in. to 132 ft. in maximum working height, and maximum platform capacities ranging from 425 lbs. to 600 lbs., there is a Snorkel boom lift for almost any application.

Snorkel and Fallsway: A Perfect Pair

Snorkel and Fallsway are the perfect pair. For starters, we were both established in 1959, currently celebrating our 60^th year in business! This is not simply a neat coincidence, but it also shows both Fallsway and Snorkel have the knowledge and experience to provide solutions to even the most difficult problems. If you have ever done business with Fallsway in the past, you know firsthand the pride and trust we have in the products we offer. Not only does Snorkel offer a product that is unmatched when it comes to quality and value, but they also provide first-class support for service and parts.

Contact Fallsway today to learn how your operation can benefit from the high-quality materials and ergonomic designs only offered by Snorkel.

Jungheinrich EZS 7280NA: Electric Tow Tractor (Tugger)

With a compact durable design, the all-new 64,700 lb. capacity electric tow tractor from Jungheinrich is designed for towing heavy-duty loads in any industry. Enjoy a small turning radius, high performance when moving on ramps, an ergonomic workstation, corrosion protection, and energy efficiency while transporting heavy loads across the airport tarmac or industrial facility. Learn more about the Jungheinrich EZS 7280NA tugger and why it might be a great fit for your operation.

Productivity

The EZS 7280NA reaches speeds of 15.5 mph (unloaded) and 7.5 mph (loaded). This allows your operators to quickly and effectively get where they need to go.

Designed to make life easy on your operators and save time, the touch mode feature makes it easy to attach and detach trailers.

Have ramps or inclines? No worry, the EZS 7280NA tows up to 9.5 tons, 21,000 lbs., on 10% grade ramps.

All parts and components are easily accessible; therefore, it is easier and faster to service.

Safety

The Jungheinrich EZS 7280NA provides maximum productivity without sacrificing safety.  

Driver Visibility – Enjoy a clear driving view with minimal blind spots. Also, cutouts on the rear panel provide an excellent view of the coupling.

Automatic Parking Brake – The tow tractor and trailer are secured automatically when it stops. 

Hill-Start Assist – While on a ramp or incline, start without any roll-back. Paired with anti-skid control (ASC), you are ensured smooth, reliable acceleration in the toughest situations.

curveControl – This option automatically reduces speed while turning corners avoids tipping and ensures control over the load.

Energy Efficiency

The EZS 7280NA comes with proprietary 3-phase AC technology from Jungheinrich, thus consumes less energy, extends the battery life, and increases run times.

For 24/7 operations and high usage applications, the Jungheinrich EZS 7280NA has an XL option, which enables a larger battery size. As a result, there will be an increase in performance and energy efficiency.

Ergonomics

Ergonomic workstation features several designs implemented with the operator in mind, such as:

• Automotive-style interior and operation with foot-pedal and adjustable steering column
• Spacious cabin with an optimum all-round view, including great visibility of the coupling from the operator’s seat
• Low entry step with level foot-well
• Outlet vents that prevent fogging            

Total Cost of Ownership

Across its product line, Jungheinrich implements productivity features, energy and awareness designs, ergonomics, and uptime to minimize the total cost of ownership. The Jungheinrich EZS 7280NA is no different. Save time and money with 1,000-hour service intervals.

If you are looking to take the total cost of ownership even lower, consider getting it with the lithium-Ion package.

• Fast charging with no need for battery exchanges
• Maintenance-free and no odors from gases or acidification
• Longer service life
• Charging can be interrupted at any time without damage to the battery
• 5-year battery warranty

Specs:

Contact us or learn more about the Jungheinrich EZS 7280NA tugger and why it might be a great fit for your operation.

Today, fleet owners are offered a large variety of types, sizes, and application-specific lift trucks that serve a specific purpose. Equipment choice ultimately factors into the overall throughput, efficiency, and safety of the operation. When it comes down to it, the choice of tires for the forklift can be one of the most influential factors in efficiency and operating costs for that machine at the application. Here are some of the key points when picking the right forklift tires:

Cushion or Pneumatic Forklift Tires?

The type of tires your forklift has been specifically designed for the surface that the machine will be operating most efficiently on, so choosing the right tire will impact your machine’s maximum performance.

• Cushion Forklift Tires
  These forklift tires should only be operated on smooth concrete surfaces, most commonly at indoor working facilities, and are typically smaller than comparable capacity pneumatic models.
• Pneumatic Forklift Tires
  Forklift with pneumatic tires can work indoors and on outdoor surfaces like blacktop, stone, or dirt, but not on rough terrains like fields or severely unsurfaced lots. These tires have a wider versatility of where they can be operated on, thus giving them higher resale value.

Tire Tread & Profile Style

Not only are there different types of forklift tires, but there are also different treads and profile styles you can get with your forklift. Depending on the application it is driven on, the terrain will affect the tread or profile style you may need. Available options include:

• Smooth Tires – Typically for dry indoor applications and all steer axles.
• Traction Tires – A general-purpose use in a wide variety of forklift applications.
• Grooved Tires – Designed for larger-capacity trucks where loads and operating conditions are extreme.
• Wide-Track Traction Tires – All-season indoor or outdoor use forklift tire.

The quality and consistency of material are also major factors when determining tire performance. If you want your tires to last longer and perform better, determine the correct tread and profile style for maximum efficiency.

For help with selecting the right forklift tires for your application, contact us at 330-633-6000.

Originally published 7/20/2018
Updated 5/21/2019