Can I use an electric forklift in the rain is a question you may have asked before purchasing an electric forklift. After all, if you operate in a yard with outdoor areas, having a forklift that can’t move about when it’s raining would be a massive disadvantage. So in this blog post, we’re going to discuss several common areas to help you understand whether you can use electric forklifts in the rain or not.
Firstly, is it actually possible to use electric forklifts in the rain? It depends on the forklift. Some electric forklifts, such as Jungheinrich, are designed for use in the rain, however, a quick and easy way to tell is via the forklift’s Internal protection code.
Internal Protection Code (IP Code)
Internal Protection (IP code) of a forklift tells operators how much the vehicle is rated to be protected against water. Usually the IP code will look something like IPXX
First X Represents (IPXX)
The first X telling users it’s rated protection against solids
Second X Represent (IPXX)
The 2nd X states it’s liquid protection level.
Any forklift with a liquid protection level above 4 (IPX4) is rated for use outside while it’s raining. For example, the Jungheinrich forklifts normally have an IP code of IP54, so you can tell that they have a dust rating of 5, and a splash rating of 4, which is typical of what you’d see in a rainstorm. These ratings also apply to electric forklifts, so you can be sure that as long as you’re buying a forklift with an IP splash rating above 4, that you can use your electric forklift in the rain!
You also need to make sure that you have the correct safety measures in place. For example, in wet and rainy conditions, there is an increased risk of accidents, so ensuring that you have all the proper precautions in place can help to reduce that risk. Below are some examples of safety measures you can take to help keep the risk of accidents in the rain.
Visibility
You could have the best forklift in the world, but if your visibility is hindered, you pose just as big a risk as any other forklift onsite. Make sure that you are always using your lights and horn when moving, and also ensure to keep your lights on at all times, to help other forklift operators from accidentally hitting you if you’re stationary.
Speed
Make sure that if you are moving around in rain, especially if you’re carrying goods, to control your speed and go slower than you normally would. Not only will this help to control your forklift, but it will also help to spot anyone early who you may struggle to see in the poor conditions and give you time to stop too.
Checks
Before using your forklift, make sure the operator completes a full safety check on all the equipment. It is also important that you regularly maintain your forklift, such as bulb changes that need doing before the forklift is used. This way, you lower the risk of something not being spotted or going wrong when the forklift is being used in poor conditions, which could lead to an accident.
If you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, it is possible to use an electric forklift in the rain. It is important that you ensure your machine is properly rated for working in the rain, it’s also important to ensure that you put adequate safety protocols in place to minimise the risk of accidents.
Trucks Direct UK sells a wide range of electric forklifts that can be operated in the rain. We also have a variety of fork trucks that are powered by diesel and LPG. We sell both new and used forklifts. If you would like further advice to establish whether you can operate a certain forklift in the rain, feel free to contact us or visit our showroom in Willenhall.