Material Handling

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Don't Wait! Don't Procrastinate!

Some of us are bigger procrastinators than others. A lot of this procrastination begins when we know that there is a big project ahead of us. This can be prevented by doing small portions of a project along the way; instead of waiting until something must be done! The same thing goes for forklift maintenance. A lot of us don’t want to keep up on it and would rather wait until there is a major issue to take action in fixing thier forklifts. This can end up taking more time, costing more money, and not to mention the stress and safety issues that are involved. So, regular cleaning and maintenance is a good idea when it comes to industrial machinery! 
How Much Do You Know?
1.     A frequently used forklift should have its fluids checked…
a.     Everyday
b.     Every other day
c.     Every week
2.     Ignoring low cost maintenance can cost you more in the long run.  
a.     True
b.     False
3.     It’s important to keep forklifts clean so that…
a.     There isn’t as much to clean the next time
b.     You can locate all the things you normally keep on a forklift, like tools
c.     You can easily detect parts that may need maintenance

Get This…
Not everything on a forklift needs to be checked daily, but some things do! Here is a small list of things that should be checked everyday!
1.     Inspect for leaks
2.     Look for clear signs of damage                        
3.     Check the tire condition                                             
4.     Make sure all lights are working
5.     Test the brakes, horn, and steering wheel
6.     Raise and lower forks to check the mast
7.     Check all fluids!!!

Can You Answer This Question???
What is the best way to wash an electric forklift?
a.     With a water hose
b.     With compressed air
c.     With a bucket of soap and water
Electric forklifts can be wiped down with water in certain areas. However, due to the fact that these trucks are electric, it is not a good idea to spray them with a hose. Instead the best way to clean electric trucks is to use compressed air, making B your answer.
How do you clean an electric forklift?
Get The Facts!
Keeping forklifts and other machinery in pristine shape can save time and money. So make sure to keep things clean, and that you are performing regular maintenance checks! You won’t regret being proactive, but you will regret putting things off and having it cost you in the end!

…So Call
Omega performs a wide range of maintenance checks! All of our mechanics are more than qualified to inspect your forklifts and refill fluids. So...if you need us to come check out your truck give us a call (513) 842-2012!

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Fuel Your Forklift

There are many different fuel types that forklifts can use. One of which isn’t even fuel at all, but electrictricity. Electric trucks are fairly common and have a lot of benefits. Of course, electric trucks require a battery to run, so knowing about battery maintenance and charging is key to keeping these trucks in good working condition!
How Much Do You Know?
1.     Not all electric trucks use the same batteries.
a.     True
b.     False
2.     Batteries with different voltage require different battery chargers.
a.     True
b.     False
3.     What are the two most common colored connectors for industrial battery chargers?
a.     Red and green
b.     Blue and orange
c.     Grey and Red
4.     Both forklift batteries and battery chargers are incredibly heavy.     
a.     True
b.     False

Get This…
Charging your battery correctly can help prolong its lifespan! Here are a couple of Do’s and Don’ts of charging your forklift’s battery.

Don’t Do This
·       Make sure not to over discharge your battery. Batteries should be charged well before they are dead.
·       Do not charge your battery when it is not needed. Wait to charge your forklift’s battery when you can charge it completely.

Do This
·       Always charge batteries in a well-ventilated area.
·       It benefits your battery to let it have a full charge cycle after every 8 hours of using the forklift. 

Can You Answer This Question???
One way a forklift’s battery preserves itself is by saying it has 0% charge when in actuality it still contains 30% charge.
a.     True
b.     False
It is incredibly harmful for a forklift battery to be completely uncharged, this is called deep-cycling and will shorten the life of your battery. Because of this many forklifts will say that they are at 0% battery power when they are really at 20%, giving the operator a chance to charge the battery before it is fully dead. So, if you chose False you are correct. If you chose true, at least you are on the right track!
 

Get The Facts!
Changing forklift batteries may seem like an easy job, but there are some hazards when partaking in this kind of activity. Not only are forklift batteries incredibly heavy, but they also contain sulfuric acid which can burn your eyes and skin, along with other things that can make this process dangerous. Here are some quick tips when changing your forklifts battery.
1.     Make sure your forklift is parked with the engine off!
2.     Make sure you are changing the battery in a smoke free zone with plenty of space.
3.     Wear protective gear, like glasses, and possibly gloves.
4.     You may need a conveyor or overhead hoist to help lift the battery due to their weight.
5.     Battery covers should be open to allow heat to dissipate.
6.     Make sure that the reinstalled battery is in the proper position and secure in the forklift!
7.     Double check to make sure no tools are left on or around the forklift battery.    
   
    …So Call
      We service and sell a wide range of forklifts as well as forklift batteries and their chargers   so if you  have questions give us a call or shoot us an e-mail!
Call: (513) 842-2012


Multiple Choice Answers: 1/A, 2/A, 3/C, 4/A


Friday, October 13, 2017

A Life Full of Computers

Computers have become a huge part of our lives. It’s crazy to think that until relatively recently laptops didn’t even exist, people didn’t have a computer at their home, let alone multiple computers. Now nearly everyone walks around with laptops, smart phones, and iPads. But, we must ask ourselves, what good are all these devices if we can’t keep them organized?




 How Much Do You Know?
1.     In what year did computers become mainstream (or more common) in households?
a.     1970’s
b.     1980’s
c.     1990’s
2.     In what years were the PowerBook series of laptops introduced and discontinued?
a.     1982, 1996
b.     1987, 2001
c.     1992, 2006
3.     When will the once popular AIM Instant messenger products be discontinued?
a.     November 2017
b.     December 2017
c.     January 2018
4.      A well-organized computer goes hand and hand with efficiency.
a.     True
b.     False

Get This…
One of the most important things in organizing your computer is to use folders. I know this sounds basic, but people tend to keep throwing junk in the same spot. For me this spot happens to be in my downloads, just because that’s where all my saved items automatically go. I have to make a conscious effort to put certain files, pictures, and other things in separate, properly labeled folders. This can save you a ton of time! Making your computer usage that much more efficient! If you happen to have a file you use a lot you can even put it on your desktop for easy access. Here are four tips for keeping your computer organized:
1.     Make an organization plan and stick to it.
2.     Use properly labeled folders…and even subfolders.
3.     Backup and save all important documents in their proper places.
4.     Clear out and declutter your files, desktop, and e-mail on a regular basis. Trust me, you will feel so much better! 
Can You Answer This Question???
In 2003 what percentage of U.S. citizens used computers at work?
a.     45.8%
b.     32.5%
c.     55.5%
In 2003 it is reported by the U.S. department of labor that 77 million citizens used computers at work. These 77 million people made up 55.5% of the population, making C your correct answer.


Get The Facts!
It’s now easier than ever to save computer files. We no longer need floppy disks! Heck, we don’t even need flash drives! There are now programs like google drive, Evernote, and Skydrive that save directly from your computer to the cloud. Below is some more information on google drive, and the cloud!
Google Drive:
·       15 GB of space
·       Can upload files, folders, and music
·       Comes equipped with Google Docs, Sheets, and Forms
·       Able to upload and sync files like Microsoft Office
·       Ability to share Google Drive files with other people (Makes working on group projects a breeze)
·       Will encrypt important data that is sent to cloud
·       Saves to internet in case of computer crashes
The Cloud:
·       Made up of a network of servers
·       Things are automatically uploaded to the cloud once they are put on social media forums
·       Google Drive, Skydrive, and Evernote automatically updates to the cloud (some of these companies will encrypt important data)
·       By using the cloud companies only pay for what they use, not a whole software package

…So What do you think?
Let us know what you think about online storage, and which programs your company uses in the comments! We love feedback. 
 

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

OSHA Violations Can Be Spooky, Don't Let Them Scare You!


We’ve mentioned OSHA before in our blog, but as the season changes it’s important for us to bring OSHA’s standards back into the spotlight. New challenges can arise with the new season, but don’t let this catch you off guard!  

How Much Do You Know?
1. What does OSHA stand for?
               a.     Ohio Safety and Health Administration
               b.     Occupational Safety and Health Administration
               c.     Origin of Safety and Health Administration  
2. Changing seasons can highlight different OSHA standards and violations.
               a.     True
               b.     False
3. What is OSHA responsible for?
               a.     To oversee minimal health and safety for workers
               b.     To oversee maximum health and safety for workers
               c.     To oversee health and safety for state workers
4. OSHA oversees a wide range of business types.
               a.     True
               b.     False

Get This…
Recently OSHA revealed their top ten fall violations for 2017! Currently this list is preliminary, and not all violations have been added to OSHA’s official reporting system. Some of these violations may not affect your business directly, but knowing what kinds of things OSHA is keeping an eye out for can be very beneficial for business owners and workers alike. Violations include:
1.     Construction: Unprotected edges, open sides in residential construction, and inadequate or no fall protection on low-slope roofs.
2.     Scaffolding: Lack of proper access to surfaces, and guard rails.
3.     Hazard Communication: Lack of data safety sheets and absence of a hazard communication program (this is the most common violation).
4.     Fall Training Requirements: Failure to educate workers on fall protection equipment and how to locate and identify fall hazards.  
5.     Respiratory Protection: Not establishing respiratory protection programs, along with failure to provide medical screenings and evaluations.
6.     Construction Ladders: Use of damaged ladders, and improper use of ladders, like using the top step.
7.     Guarding Machines: Access to points of operation.
8.     Electrical Wiring Maintenance and Methods: These violations are usually seen in basic industries, like food and retail.
9.     Lockout/Tagout: Lack of adequate worker training, and incomplete inspections.
10.  Powered Industrial Trucks: Inadequate worker training and re-certification. WE CAN HELP YOU WITH THIS!!!
As you can see, most of these violations are preventable with a little bit of education and maintenance! 
Can You Answer This Question???
Willful or repeated violations can cause companies anywhere from $_______ to $ _______.
A.    20,000 to 50,000 total
B.    20,000 to 50,000 per violation
C.    70,000 to 124,709 total
D.    70,000 to 124,709 per violation
The answer may be surprising, but D is correct. Obviously, this cost is astronomical. It is much more cost effective to stay up on OSHA rules and regulations. Not to mention, it’s just a lot less hassle!

Get The Facts!
OSHA violations and regulations sound like a scary thing, and they can be! So don’t procrastinate, prepare. All of these issues are very preventable. If you want to know more about how the OSHA inspection process works, check out the link below! 

…So Call!!!
Give us a call about our driver training and re-certification program. There’s no better time than the present! Dave will be happy to answer any of your questions at: (513) 842-2012.




Friday, September 29, 2017

Breakfast is Better than Ever


                   

We’re all so busy, and it’s easy to rush out of the house without eating breakfast. I myself tend to do this all the time. With this said there are many healthy benefits to eating breakfast that never fail to go unnoticed! All of these benefits will make you think twice about not making time for breakfast!
How Much Do You Know?
1.     Breakfast is the most important meal of the day?
a.      True
b.     False
c.      Debatable
2.     How many calories are in one large egg?
a.      74
b.     64
c.      54
3.     Granola is a good choice for a low fat breakfast?
a.      True

b.     False
 
Get This…
There is some debate on whether or not breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Regardless of this debate there are some benefits to eating breakfast. Below we will list 10 of the main reasons people should partake in eating a healthy breakfast.
     1.     Body Fuel- Breakfast gives you enough nutrients to energize your body for hours.
     2.     Healthy Habits- People who eat breakfast eat less fat and cholesterol, but ingest more vitamins,           minerals, and fiber.
     3.     Cutting Calories- When someone eats breakfast they are less likely to ingest as many calories as      those who do not. In addition, eating breakfast and skipping lunch is more efficient in cutting             calories than the reverse.
     4.     Reduced Risk of Diabetes- Those who eat breakfast are less likely to be diabetic   .
     5.     Weight Control- Breakfast can help keep your weight down.
     6.     Increase in Focus- People who eat breakfast are able to focus better than those who don’t.
     7.     Memory Enhancement- Experts say that eating breakfast improves memory and encourages learning.
     8.     Increased Fitness- Because people who eat breakfast have more energy they are more likely to spend time on fitness.
     9.     Better Moods- When you skip breakfast you are tired and irritable, by eating something you are less likely to feel this way, thus, putting you in a better mood.
     10.  Reduced Stress- Taking time to eat breakfast can be relaxing and enjoyable, it can also give you extra time to plan and prioritize your day.  

Can You Answer This Question???
Is granola a healthy go-to breakfast?
     A.    Yes!
     B.    No!
Neither of these answers are actually correct. Granola has many healthy qualities, like a high fiber content. However, granola is high in fat due to the things that are in it, like nuts. Often times these are healthy fats but their intake still needs to be monitored. Another problem with eating granola is that much of it has added sugars; to prevent this issue making your own granola is always a good choice! At the bottom of this page we will include a simple granola recipe you can try at home!
Here Are The Facts!
Although there has been recent debate over whether or not breakfast is the most important meal of the day it is still associated with a lot of great benefits. One of which is that people who eat a healthy breakfast are less likely to be overweight. A lot of this stems from the fact that they have ended their nightly fast, they’ve gotten their metabolism going, and their bodies are not starving all day. Because of this, by the time lunch rolls around they are more likely to make healthier decisions and better portion control decisions. Eating breakfast also gives people more energy. This makes them more likely to work out, even if they don’t work out until later in the day. Maybe you’re like me, and you aren’t much a breakfast person, but with benefits like this I just might give it a shot!
…Recipes
Granola:
Ingredients:
 2 cups raw, whole rolled oats (aka old fashion oats), preferably organic
 ½ cup raw nuts, chopped
¼ cup raw seeds (sunflower or pumpkin seeds are great)
 ½ cup unsweetened dried fruit, chopped (optional)
2-3 tablespoons grade-b maple syrup or raw honey (or a combo of both)
2 tbsp virgin coconut oil or other healthy cooking oil
 ½ tsp vanilla extract or almond extract
1 large pinch fine sea salt
 Preheat the oven to 300º F. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and use your clean hands to mix well and toss to coat; it will be sticky and messy but that’s the fun part. The coconut oil might be liquid or solid depending on the temperature of the room you are in (it has a melting point of about 75ºF.) Your hands will warm it up and melt it into the mixture if it’s solid, just be sure to mix it all through the other ingredients so there aren’t any chunks of oil left. Spread the mixture in a thin layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, until very lightly toasted. (To make this recipe completely raw-friendly, dehydrate the mixture 5-6 hours at 115ºF in a food dehydrator instead.) Cool before serving or storing. This granola can be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.

Read more at elizabethrider.com
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
1 large banana, peeled
1 cup ice cubes
1/2 cup almond milk
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 heaping Tbsp. peanut butter
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
In a blender, combine all ingredients.  Blend until smooth, and serve immediately
To give this some extra chill, try using frozen bananas! Often if I bring home more than I can use (before they ripen), I’ll go ahead and peel them, cut them into somewhat small pieces, and pop them in a bag and into the freezer.
Read more at gimmesomeoven.com
Avocado Toast
1-2 pieces of whole grain bread
1 large avacado
1-2 eggs, poached, fried or scrambled
¼ of a lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Get your bread toasting. While your bread is toasting cook your eggs however you most enjoy them. Slice your avocado in half and then long ways. Once bread and eggs are cooked put your avocado on top of your toast, then lay your eggs on top of the avocado. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper, and apply some lemon juice. To add a little kick you can add a bit of hot sauce.
If you have breakfast recipes that you’d like to share, we’d love to hear them! Post them in the comments below!
Thanks for tuning into our blog! Have grrrreeeeaaaatttt day!