Experiences in safe use of material handling equipment at BARC

Material handling is a basic requirement of all the tasks we perform. Equipment used for handling of materials provide great flexibility in relieving man-power, reduced time and in ensuring safety of men and materials. These Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) refer to various materials handling equipment, including forklifts, cranes, chain pulley blocks, tractors, and other specialized industrial trucks powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines. Proper maintenance of these equipment is essential, because, in addition to enhanced safety, it prevents loss of business or production caused by mechanical failure. This paper discusses on the experiences in respect of safe use of MHE achieved through a typical systematic approach to maintenance of material handling equipment. (author)