Data Tags Should Be Accurate and Legible

Data tags, or nameplates, are an important part of your forklift. The operator looks at them to determine what the forklift can lift. These tags need to be legible and on the truck. They also need to reflect the attachments that may be on your forklift, as stated in the following OSHA regulations.

• Modifications and additions that affect capacity and safe operations shall not be performed by the customer or user without the manufacturer's prior written approval. Capacity, operation, maintenance instruction plates, tags or decals shall be changed accordingly. (OSHA law 1910.178(a)(4))
• If the truck is equipped with front-end attachments other than factory installed attachments, the user shall request that the truck be marked to identify the attachments and show the approximate weight of the truck and attachment combination at maximum elevation with load laterally centered. (1910.178(a)(5))
• The user shall see that all nameplates and markings are in place and are maintained in a legible condition. (1910.178(a)(6))

Customers who swap attachments need to pay extra attention to see that each attachment is listed on the tag and that it reflects the proper lifting capacity of the truck when that particular attachment is on the forklift.

Batteries Must Meet a Minimum Weight

Electric truck customers: Did you know that the battery in your forklift has to meet a minimum weight determined by the forklift manufacturer of that truck? The battery in your forklift is not only a power source, it also acts as counterweight for the truck. Your nameplate will list the proper minimum battery weight required for your truck.

There are still many older forklifts in use with attachments that are not reflected on the data tag, along with batteries that are too small for the battery compartment. A good time to check for this is when you do the pre-shift inspection on your forklift.

Confused by all of this? We can help to straighten out any confusion you may have. We will work with you to correct or get a new tag, even if it is a manufacturer that we don't represent.

January is our "Free Safety Inspection Month." Contact your local Thompson & Johnson representative for a free safety inspection today.

Thompson & Johnson Becomes Authorized Distributor
for American-Lincoln

Thompson & Johnson is extremely proud to announce that we have become an authorized distributor for the American-Lincoln line of floor cleaning equipment. This comprehensive line, coupled with the products of our long-standing relationship with Advance Machine Company, enables Thompson & Johnson to fill your housekeeping and floor maintenance requirements with productive and durable equipment from two of the industry leaders.