Any construction business owner knows that heavy equipment is an essential part of any project, allowing builders to save manpower for tasks that require precision. However, like any tool, it’s important to keep heavy equipment in good condition, especially since they can become construction site hazards if they are poorly maintained. Here are some heavy equipment maintenance mistakes that you should avoid in order to keep your construction site safe.

Not Having a Preventive Maintenance Routine

Similar to car maintenance, it’s important to keep track of your heavy equipment to ensure that it works properly when you need it to. A malfunction during a construction project can cause significant project delays and could even cause accidents. Keeping to a regular maintenance routine involves bringing your equipment in for maintenance on time as well as replacing parts when needed. It’s also important to get your replacement parts only from trusted sources, like Fortis Heavy Duty. Counterfeit and low-grade replacement parts wear out quicker than those that match manufacturer standards. 

Ignoring Performance Specifications

Never push your equipment beyond its specifications, as this can affect its functionality. This not only increases the risks involved during its operation, but it also increases its wear and tear, which can alter its maintenance. If parts wear out faster, the maintenance routine suggested by the manufacturer isn’t going to be effective. Remember that the recommended maintenance routine applies only when the equipment is used as suggested.

Failing to Train Heavy Equipment Operators

You should never assume that your equipment operators know how to work a particular piece of equipment, especially when either the operator or the equipment is new. There’s no harm in being thorough when training people how to use equipment, as this will help operators avoid bad habits that cause mechanical parts to wear prematurely. 

Leaving Your Equipment Exposed

Many owners get the impression that heavy equipment can withstand being exposed to the elements. While they are made for heavy work, their components are vulnerable to the elements. Parts such as wiring, starters and alternators can be expensive to repair and replace when they get damaged. Any malfunction during operation will cause project delays and they can also potentially become accidents, so make sure to store your heavy equipment when it’s not in use. 

Poor Equipment Storage

When storing your heavy equipment, it’s important to keep your storage area clean and protected from extreme temperatures and moisture that could cause problems such as corrosion, which could affect the structural integrity and mobility of your equipment. This also means that you have to clean and prepare your heavy equipment for storage. This helps to preserve its functionality and to maintain its value if you decide to sell your equipment later on. 

Maintaining your heavy equipment is vital to avoid any unexpected malfunctions and to prevent accidents from happening on your construction site. These simple tips will not only keep your heavy equipment in good condition, they will also help prolong the life of your equipment.