In busy warehouse environments, forklifts pose three primary safety risks: collisions with pedestrians, damage to goods and infrastructure, and operator injuries. Forklift operator training and safety equipment/telematics on the truck are important, yet tire conditions are often overlooked when preventing accidents.

Regular Tire Maintenance

A forklift’s performance depends on the warehouse floor condition, and its tires are also vitally important. Good tires ensure traction, steering control, and braking efficiency, while worn or damaged tires compromise stability and safety. Aggressive driving compounds the issue, making tires the last line of defense in preventing accidents. Therefore, regular tire maintenance and timely replacements are essential for maintaining a safe warehouse.

8 Forklift Tire Warning Signs To Watch For

1. Tire Wear Indicators:
   Each tire type has specific guidelines for replacement:

• Replace solid tires when the wear band is visible.
• Cushion tires are due for replacement when the tread wears down to the top of the factory lettering.

2. Surface Wear:
   Ideal wear appears even as tread wear with rubber remains flexible. Tires with sidewall damage, brittle material, or deep cuts all warrant replacement.
3. Flat Spots:
   Flat areas on tires can result from prolonged inactivity, harsh driving/environments, or overloading. Address this issue immediately to avoid causing uneven movement.
4. Embedded Debris:
   Debris embedded in the tire surface can reduce traction and lead to damage. Pneumatic tires may leak, and solid tires may crack due to embedded objects.
5. Uneven Wear:
   Uneven wear can cause steering issues and premature failure. It may be due to misalignment, unbalanced loads, or improper inflation.
6. Discoloration:
   Fading or unusual coloration often signals chemical or heat damage, which weakens tire integrity.
7. Tire Age:
   Even if tires look fine, aging rubber loses elasticity and strength over time. Signs include poor ride quality and slow air leaks in pneumatic tires.
8. Visible Damage:
   Cracks, missing treads, bulges, or blowouts are all red flags. Damage like bond separation or radial cracking points to serious issues like overloading or incorrect tire use.

Best Practices for Forklift Tire Maintenance

To maintain safety, forklift fleet managers should adopt a twofold strategy:

1. Preventive Maintenance:
   Regularly inspect tires for damage or wear. If issues are found, tag the forklift out of service until repairs are made and the causes are addressed.
2. First-Sign Replacement:
   Act immediately when early signs of wear or damage appear. Waiting can turn minor issues into serious risks.

Additional maintenance steps include cleaning tires, checking pressure, removing debris, lubricating moving parts, and ensuring proper alignment and balance.

Why Proactive Forklift Tire Maintenance Matters

Effective forklift tire maintenance isn’t just about the tires — it’s about identifying broader operational issues. Managers should not avoid regular tire maintenance, whether reinforcing driver training or improving floor conditions. Taking a proactive approach to tire conditions can reduce downtown, avoid potentially disastrous outcomes, and improve overall warehouse safety.