All you need to know when you come to Weatherproof your Forklift Truck.

For businesses that require outdoor usage of forklift trucks, weatherproofing is an essential consideration. The main concern is protecting the interior of the cab from rain, whether that be for keeping the weather off an operator when the machine is in use, or just for storing the machine outdoors. There are three main ways to weatherproof a forklift truck, and they all offer different solutions for different needs.

1. Cabs which protect the operator from rain and cold

There are many weatherproof cabs available to fit any forklift truck. They range from a full metal cab offering comprehensive protection from harsh weather conditions, to semi-cabs with PVC doors that can subjectively protect the operator while the forklift is in use.

These cabs also have a range of options for accessories that can be fitted, to increase the weatherproofing. These accessories include front and rear windscreen washer/wipers, sighting panels to fit the overhead region, internal lights and heaters for the cabin, and external halogen lights or indicators. We manufacture these cabs to the highest standards, and offer either a supply-only or full fitting service with the help of factory-trained engineers.

2. Canopies

These offer similar weather protection to the more advanced cabs, but they are cheaper and, naturally, less effective. Essentially, they are plastic covers that fit around the forklift to protect the operator; they are like ‘forklift umbrellas’.

These come in a wide variety of colours, and there are also different material options including heavy-duty PVC and canvas. Different materials have different properties, so be sure to do your research before settling on a material for your canopy.

3. Storage covers to protect from April showers

This option is only for protecting your machines while they are not in use if they are stored outdoors. Springtime is not immune to the odd shower, and you will want to keep your machines dry to ensure they don’t suffer costly damage from the elements. Forklift covers are generally made from very strong and durable PVC-ST or canvas, and come in a variety of sizes to fit any forklift imaginable.

Protecting your forklifts from the weather is extremely important to maximise their lifespan. Rain and ice can be extremely damaging by causing rust on both external and internal metal parts, as well as messing with electrics and compromising the integrity of other materials inside the cab. With the simple addition of one of these weatherproofing measures, you can prevent these types of damage occurring and minimise maintenance costs for your machines.

This is not to mention the importance of protecting your forklift operators from the elements. If your staff are to be working outdoors for extended periods of time, they must be protected from rain and cold all year round in order to keep them healthy and safe.

Happy staff and well-maintained machines mean that productivity and motivation remain high, and that unnecessary costs like machine maintenance and staff absence are minimised. If your forklifts spend time outdoors, you can’t afford to ignore the weatherproofing measures available to you.