Handle drums safely and efficiently with St Clare Engineering

 

Forklifts play a crucial role in managing heavy materials safely and efficiently. With the correct forklift attachments, they can be used to handle everything from heavy pallets to cumbersome whisky barrels. In this blog, we look at how using the correct drum handling forklift attachments will help ensure that your drums and your team stay safe and work well.

 

Drum handling forklift attachments for a wide range of industries

Drums are used in a wide range of industries for the storage and transport of liquids and  solids, including food and drink, chemicals, agricultural products and waste. Unlike standard pallets, the shape and size of drums can be difficult to move securely. Improper handling can lead to accidents, damage and even safety risks for workers. That’s why it is important to use the correct forklift attachments to move your drums.

 

Choose the right forklift drum attachment

Selecting the appropriate attachment for the shape, size and weight of your drum is the first and most critical step. Forklifts are versatile, but unless you choose the right forklift attachment for your drum type, you risk an accident.

Drum type

We have drum handling forklift attachments to suit many different types of drum and are happy to advise you on handling your specific drum if you are not sure. We cater for forklifts handling closed or open top steel drums, plastic ‘L’ ring drums, Mauser drums or fibre drums.

Forklift attachment drum grip type

Choosing the right attachment for your forklift ensures that your forklift drum handling will be safe and secure. Our drum handling attachments feature a range of different gripping mechanisms (including rim grippers, waist grippers and base grippers) each designed to hold drums securely onto the forklift attachment for safe manoeuvring.

 

 

Proper training for forklift operators

Even the best equipment can be misused without the proper training. Forklift operators should be well-versed in using drum attachments and handling the specific materials being moved. Training programs should cover basic forklift operation and provide in-depth instruction on safely using drum handling attachments. Operators must understand how to engage, lift, rotate, and set down drums without causing damage to the equipment, the drum or their surroundings.

In addition to regular training, refresher courses can reinforce the safe handling of drums and update workers on new attachments or methods. This ensures consistency in performance while reducing the risk of costly errors.

 

Regular inspections and maintenance

Regular inspection of both the forklift and forklift attachments is crucial. Whilst Grab-O-Matic units are very low maintenance and require only occasional light oiling, we recommend an annual service and testing programme to ensure your attachments are inspected, remain in good working order and adhere to current LOLER regulations for the drum lifting equipment.

Even the best equipment can break – but if it is expertly manufactured here in the UK by St Clare Engineering we can quickly get it back up and running for you. No hassle, minimal downtime, and reliable service for all your Grab-O-Matic products with our comprehensive spares and repairs service.

Additionally, it’s essential to check the drums themselves, to ensure that they aren’t damaged or leaking. Catching these issues early on can save costs and avoid dangerous or time-consuming spills.

 

Securing the drum handling attachment

Properly securing the drum attachment to the forklift is non-negotiable. An improperly mounted attachment can easily lead to the mishandling of heavy drums, increasing the risk of accidents. It’s essential to double-check the connection and ensure that the drum handler is firmly attached before proceeding with any operation.

Unique quick attach and release system

Our unique safety innovation eliminates the need for the forklift driver to dismount from the cab to secure the drum grabs to the forks with T bolts and chains. Using the Grab-O-Matic quick release system significantly reduces the risk of accidents, as well as saving time and increasing productivity.

 

Grab-O-Matic Quick Attach and Release Forklift Attachments

 

Smooth and controlled operation

When moving or rotating drums, operators should strive for smooth, controlled movements. Abrupt motions, such as jerking or quick stops, can cause drums to slip and result in spills, damaged materials or injury. Any movement or rotation should be slow and deliberate, ensuring the drum’s contents remain stable. This is especially important when handling drums filled with liquids, where even minor shifts can cause imbalance or spills.

 

Adhere to weight limits

Forklifts and their attachments have designated weight limits. Exceeding these limits can damage the equipment and lead to hazardous situations. Always ensure the combined weight of the drum and its contents is within the capacity of both the forklift and the drum handling forklift attachment. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and avoid overloading at all costs. This simple practice can prevent accidents and prolong the lifespan of the equipment.

 

Organise the workplace for safe manoeuvring

Maintaining an organised workspace is another essential component of safe drum handling. Clear pathways should be designated for forklift movement, reducing the risk of collisions or accidents. Similarly, designated areas for drum storage should be clearly marked to streamline workflow and minimise confusion. Efficient workspace design not only promotes safety but also enhances productivity, allowing operators to move and store drums with ease.

 

Conclusion

Ultimately, following these best practices improves more than just safety. It also enhances productivity by reducing downtime caused by accidents or equipment failure. Well-trained operators, the correct forklift attachments, regularly maintained equipment, and organised workspaces contribute to a smoother workflow, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently.

Get in touch to learn more about how St Clare Engineering drum handling forklift attachments can help you maintain high safety and efficiency. Contact:

Andy Bow – St Clare Engineering Ltd
Tel: 02380 643402
Fax: 02380 642189
Email: sales@stclare-engineering.co.uk
Web: www.stclare-engineering.co.uk