How Important is a Forklift Seat?

The seat of a forklift is perhaps the most important component for protecting the operator. Unlike cars, forklifts lack shock absorbers, which means the seat is the only thing protecting the operator from the bumps and jolts that happen when driving. A forklift seat in poor condition will fail to protect the operator, potentially leading to injuries and lawsuits.

It’s vital that your fleet of forklifts have suitable seats. In this article, we take a look at the signs a forklift seat needs replacing, the main reasons to replace a forklift seat and the considerations to take into account.

 

Signs your forklift seat needs replacing 

You should regularly inspect your forklift for any signs of wear and tear. The most obvious signs of damage is fabric that is torn, peeling or worn. Rips in the seat can reduce the support provided to the operator, and it can also allow metal springs to poke through.

Speaking of metal springs, the sound of squeaky springs is another indicator that the seat may need replacing. Squeaky springs are usually caused by deteriorating metal, or perhaps the connections between the springs and the seat’s frame have weakened or broken. 

Even if things look okay on the surface, it’s important not to ignore any feelings of pain or discomfort. Exposed springs or decreased support can cause pain which will worsen over time if ignored.

 

Why should you replace your forklift seat?

The main reason to replace your forklift seats is to protect the forklift operators. Failing to do this may result in further problems down the line.

For example, you might be hit with a lawsuit if you fail to sufficiently protect your workers. Business owners have a duty to ensure everyone can carry out their job safely, and this includes making sure that the forklift seats are in good condition.

Operators who are in pain as a result of driving their forklift may become disgruntled or miss days at work. This can drastically impact your business.

Productivity is also likely to decrease if a forklift operator is uncomfortable or in pain.

It’s also important to demonstrate to the workforce that you are committed to forklift safety and employee health.

 

 

What to consider when replacing your forklift seat

Replacing your forklift seat isn’t as simple as throwing on any replacement. You need to make sure you have the correct components. For example, the seat attaches to the forklift with bolts, but the positioning of these bolts varies across forklifts. You must make sure you know the bolt pattern of a forklift so that you can buy a seat that will fit.

It’s also important that you get a forklift seat replacement from a reliable source. Untrustworthy suppliers may scam you and install low-quality seats that become worn quickly or don’t provide suitable support. 

That’s why you should trust a supplier like East Midlands Forklifts for all your forklift maintenance needs.

At East Midlands Forklifts, we have over 20 years’ experience providing forklift trucks and forklift maintenance throughout the East Midlands, including Loughborough, Leicester, Nottingham and Derby. We offer a range of spare parts and a full maintenance service inclusive of repairs. Purchase or hire through East Midlands Forklift on a flexible hire contract and we’ll ensure your forklifts are in great condition throughout the year.

Contact us today to find out more.