Now you can quickly locate missing trucks, digitally complete and store pre-shift inspections, and shutdown trucks remotely when needed. And the avoid surprise truck breakdowns by never missing a preventative maintenance task. Improve productivity by identifying downtime times and underused trucks.

Automated Pre-Shift Inspections

Automates pre-shift inspections that now go faster

Automatically saves inspections digitally – no more time wasted searching for proof of inspections or paying OSHA fines for lack of inspection records

• Inspection questions are customizable
• Encourages operators to perform inspections
• Can remotely and automatically disable truck or require ‘Slow’ operating mode if operator incorrectly answers questions or until supervisor allows ‘Normal’ speed
• Alerts for failed questions

Accident and Impact Alerts

Real time notification of accidents or high impact events, along with location of truck.

• Encourage safe driving, reducing accidents and damages
• Identify dangerous areas and reckless operators

Shut down truck if an impact is detected and require a supervisor to allow further truck use.

GPS Tracking & Control

Always know the location of your trucks

• No more searching for missing trucks
• Remote shutdown (ex: accident or a failed pre-shift question)
• Remote monitoring of trucks: hours used (ex: identify over/under used trucks) location of lost trucks (or trucks in unauthorized location)

Improve productivity and lower labor cost with analytics

Analyze driver and truck utilization

• Eliminate under utilized trucks and driver down time
• Plan driver schedules and smooth out work loads across operators
• Driver history of speeds driven and time using hydraulics (electric trucks only) for each truck used
• Control charges for use and overtime of rented trucks

Display records of the following:

• Truck impacts and accidents
• Pre-inspection reports performed
• Service and maintenance history

Summarize replies to:

• Messages
• Pre-shift inspection replies and incorrectly answered questions

Customize analytical reports per customer needs

Operator license management

Automated Service Alerts

Create prompts for future maintenance required

• Perform preventative maintenance at the needed intervals to avoid work disruptions
• Service alerts can be sent based on scheduled service dates or hours used

Never miss a required maintenance, avoid surprise breakdowns, and keep your trucks running longer

Direct Messaging To Operator

• Avoid unnecessary work by instantly canceling a pallet move before the operator wastes time moving it
• Send messages to a truck operator and require a response (repeating pop ups will appear until operator replies)
• Excellent way to communicate work-related information to operators who would otherwise use personal devices and potentially get distracted, reducing productivity and safety

Access Control

• For a truck to operate, Clark Smart can require the operator to provide an access code or badge, which can be programmed by person, machine, or department
• Access code also eliminates the need for keys and “lost keys” lockout problems
• Truck access can be remotely updated without the need to physically find and work on the truck
• Supervisor can disable an unsafe truck until the condition is corrected. When the truck is safe to use, a supervisor can then unlock the truck

CLARK Smart will soon be availble on the following models:

• SES15-25 Stand-up Electric
• SE15-25T Three-Wheel Electric
• SEC20-35 Four-Wheel Electric
• GTS20-33  IC Pneumatic Tire
• S20-32C IC Cushion Tire
• S20-35 IC Pneumatic Tire
• S40-60 IC Pneumatic Tire

For more information, contact us at 877-366-7261.

As summer temperatures rise, so do the risks for heat-related illnesses—especially for workers in the material handling and warehouse industries, where physical exertion and limited airflow are part of the daily routine. Whether employees are loading trucks outdoors, managing logistics in open-air yards, or working in non-climate-controlled warehouses, staying cool isn’t just a matter of comfort—it’s a matter of safety. Employers have a responsibility to protect their teams from heat stress and related hazards. This article offers practical, proven tips to help keep your workforce safe, cool, and productive throughout the hottest months of the year.

1. Hydration Strategies

• Water stations: Place multiple shaded water stations with coolers or dispensers filled with ice water.

• Electrolyte options: Offer sports drinks or electrolyte powders to replenish salts lost through sweat.

• Hydration reminders: Use signs, mobile app reminders, or supervisors to prompt workers to drink water every 15–20 minutes.

2. Shade & Rest Breaks

• Pop-up tents or canopies: Provide shaded areas at regular intervals.

• Portable misting tents or fans: Use cooling fans or misting systems in rest areas.

• Mandatory cool-down breaks: Schedule 5–10 minute breaks in the shade every hour, more frequently if temps are above 90°F.

3. Clothing & Gear

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Encourage moisture-wicking clothing in light colors.

• Cooling gear:

  • Cooling vests (ice-pack or evaporative)

  • Neck wraps or towels soaked in cold water

  • Wide-brimmed hats or brim extensions on helmets for sun protection

• UV-protective gear to prevent sunburn and overheating.

4. Work Schedule Adjustments

• Start earlier or split shifts: Begin work at sunrise and pause during peak heat hours (typically 12–4 p.m.).

• Rotate tasks: Alternate between physically intense and less demanding tasks.

• Use buddy systems to monitor for signs of heat illness.

5. Cooling Equipment

• Battery-operated fans: Personal wearable fans for hard-to-reach sites.

• Portable misting fans: For job trailers or staging areas.

• Ice chest/coolers: Keep cold towels or drinks handy.

6. Training & Awareness

• Heat illness prevention training:

  • Teach symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

  • Emphasize the importance of acclimatization.

• Post safety signs in common areas with visual cues for heat illness symptoms and first aid steps.

7. Technology Solutions

• Wearable sensors: Monitor core body temp or heart rate (ideal for high-risk environments).

• Weather alert apps: Notify crews when heat advisories are issued.

8. Environmental Enhancements

• Temporary shade structures near worksites.

• Pavement wetting (for road crews) to reduce ambient surface temperature.

• Tree planting (long-term) or use of artificial vertical shade barriers where possible.

Pro Tips

• Use OSHA’s Heat Safety Tool app for personalized alerts and recommendations.

• Gradually acclimate new or returning workers to heat over 1–2 weeks.

• Create a heat emergency response plan, including access to cold packs, cooling areas, and emergency contact protocols.

As managers and owners, we want a safe work environment for all of our employees. Unfortunately, all too often it escapes us. Time passes quickly, and initiatives that were once important standards become guidelines or even merely suggestions. How can we ensure that when we put safety measures in place, they will stay in place as employees come and go in a business climate that is constantly in flux?

While we lack the space to answer this question in full detail here, there are a few major approaches to providing a safe work environment that transcend industries, equipment and facilities. We outline these “hows and whys” of workplace safety below.

Since 1970, OSHA has worked to create a safer workplace for all employees, and their mission has been very successful. However, accidents still happen, and not only at companies willfully violating OSHA standards. Sometimes safety goes beyond meeting standards due to unique circumstances in certain operations.

The following are a few approaches to safety that have helped both large and small companies to achieve better workplace safety, fewer incidents and accidents, lower costs, more productivity and better workplace attitudes.

Safety is integrated with company mission

Safe companies put as much emphasis on doing things safely as on doing them productively. From day one, every employee knows they are working for a company that would rather they do their job safely than quickly. These employees will lockout a piece of equipment when something goes wrong, will replace light bulbs that need it instead of ignoring them and will report unsafe behavior or unsafe conditions.

Training never ends

Employees are involved in ongoing training – how to lift more safely, how to sit properly in a chair, how to operate a certain piece of equipment and so on. Your business is fluid: things change; equipment changes; and equipment, building space and employees are added. As your conditions change, your training must address these changes. Training for the safest work environments is never a one-time event or a two- or three-day training initiation. It is an ongoing pursuit of the safest possible work facility. It should be a goal of all employees to see that their coworkers go home safe every night.

Involvement at all levels

While involvement in a safe work environment must start from the corner office, the mission and strategy it is also important to ensure that every employee knows that they are involved and responsible. It is a good idea to create safety teams for every facet of your business, to revolve people in and out of those teams, and to have them conduct frequent facility or department reviews to identify potential threats. The most successful companies have reward systems for reporting anything that could be a potential threat, even if it is as minor as a sharp corner on a coat rack. This keeps all employees engaged in creating a safe work environment.

Accountability

Once you have established your safety mission and mapped out your strategy, everyone involved must be held accountable. No one can shirk their safety responsibilities. If a sharp corner on a coat rack is missed and someone gets cut, find out why no one noticed. Are they doing regular inspections? If safety standards are not being met, it is the leadership’s job to find out why and fix it. Everyone must know that if an accident happens on their watch, it must be accounted for and a plan must be designed to ensure that it will not happen again.

A truly safe, productive and profitable workplace is attained through ongoing efforts, and these are just a few of the major traits of successful organizations. We encourage you to seek the assistance of OSHA, NIOSH or other private safety consultants to help you organize and strategize your safety plans.

If there is anything we can do to help you in your quest for a safer material handling operation, please contact us at 877-366-7261.

Learn more about training and forklift safety by Midwest Industrial Equipment.

Your forklift’s forks bear the brunt of your loading and unloading operations. Wear and tear, or damage to either component can create a dangerous situation for your employees and anyone working around your fleet. And a 10% wear on your forks can reduce your safe lifting capacity by 20%, making your 5,000lb. forklift, a 4,000lb. forklift.

Inspecting your forklift forks regularly is essential for safety and efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to inspecting your forks properly:

1. Visual Inspection

• Check for Cracks & Damage – Look closely for cracks, bends, or other signs of damage. Pay special attention to welds and stress points.
• Inspect for Bending or Warping – Lay a straight edge along the fork blade to check for any bending. Even slight bends can reduce lifting capacity.
• Look for Wear on the Heel – The fork heel (where the blade meets the shank) is a high-stress area. If it’s worn down by 10% or more, replace the fork.
• Check for Surface Damage – Rust, deep scratches, and chipped paint could indicate hidden damage or weak spots.

2. Measure Fork Thickness

• Use calipers to measure the thickness of the fork heel.
• Compare it to the original thickness. If it has worn down by 10% or more, replace the fork (this reduces load capacity by about 20%).

3. Check Fork Hooks & Mounting Points

• Ensure the hooks are not cracked or excessively worn.
• Verify that the locking pins are functional and secure.
• Make sure the forks are properly mounted and not loose.

4. Confirm Even Fork Height

• Set the forks on a level surface and check if the tips are even.
• A difference of more than 3% of fork length means one fork is more worn than the other and should be replaced.

5. Inspect Load Markings

• Make sure the load capacity markings on the forks are visible and legible.
• If they are missing or unreadable, you may need to replace the forks or have them re-marked.

6. Test Fork Operation

• Engage and disengage the forks to ensure smooth movement.
• Look for signs of unusual resistance, sticking, or instability.

7. Follow OSHA or Manufacturer Guidelines
OSHA and forklift manufacturers typically recommend daily pre-shift inspections and full inspections at least once per year (or more in high-use environments).

If any defects or wear exceed safety limits, replace the forks immediately rather than attempting repairs. Forklifts depend on strong, reliable forks to operate safely. Contact us at 877-366-7261 and we will help you select the proper forks for your forklift and operational requirements.

Winter is upon us and heating a warehouse or manufacturing facility can be quite expensive. To manage heat retention in a warehouse, especially during colder months, here are some effective tips:

1. Improve Insulation

• Roof and Walls: Ensure the warehouse roof and walls are well-insulated to minimize heat loss.
• Doors and Windows: Use insulated doors or heavy-duty curtains and weatherproof windows to prevent drafts and keep the warmth inside.

2. Seal Air Leaks

• Check for gaps around doors, windows, and loading docks, then seal them using weatherstripping or caulking to prevent heat from escaping.

3. Use Thermal Curtains or Air Barriers

• Install thermal curtains or strip doors at loading bays and other high-traffic areas to reduce heat loss when doors are opened.
• Air curtains can help maintain indoor temperatures when doors frequently open.

4. Optimize Heating Systems

• Use energy-efficient heaters (e.g., infrared or radiant heaters) that directly warm objects and people instead of the air, which can escape.
• Zone heating allows you to target only the areas in use, reducing energy waste.

5. Harness Heat from Machinery

• Use the heat generated by forklifts, conveyors, and other machinery as a secondary source of warmth.
• Position workstations near machinery that emits heat, but ensure proper safety protocols are in place.

6. Proper Ventilation

• Balance between ventilation for fresh air and preventing heat loss. Ensure ventilation systems are well-calibrated to circulate air without excessively cooling the space.
• Use energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) to preheat incoming cold air with the warmth of outgoing air.

7. Install Ceiling Fans

• Use high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans to help distribute heat evenly throughout the warehouse by pushing warm air from the ceiling back down to the ground level.

8. Thermal Mass Flooring

• If possible, incorporate thermal mass floors, such as concrete with heat retention properties. These floors absorb heat during the day and release it gradually.

9. Radiant Floor Heating

• In colder climates, radiant floor heating is an efficient way to maintain heat at floor level, which is particularly useful in large, open warehouse spaces.

10. Use Smart Thermostats

• Implement smart thermostats that can monitor temperature zones and adjust heating as needed, optimizing energy use and maintaining consistent temperatures.

These strategies can help keep a warehouse warm during colder months without excessive energy consumption.

Your forklift tires are the only thing that stands between thousands of pounds of forklift and the Earth beneath. As many can attest, if you ignore the importance of the tires, bad things can happen including more frequent replacement, increased operating costs, accidents and even injuries. Some experts estimate that forklift tires can account for as much as 30% of a forklift’s operating budget.

Following are a few things you can do to ensure that you have optimized the performance of your forklift tires and are getting the best performance and useful life.

Selecting the right tire

We could write an encyclopedia on this topic as there are many factors to consider. Our best suggestion is to meet with a professional who knows forklift tires (like one of our aftermarket customer support representatives).  A trained professional will consider factors like the types of equipment you operate, what type of surface they are operating on and what are the conditions of operation? Do your forklifts operate on a smooth surface in a temperature-controlled environment, or is the surface rough, gravel, blacktop or is the floor subject to debris? Are your forklifts making frequent turns, never getting to full speed, or do your forklifts frequently make long runs which generate much more heat?

After consulting with you and observing your operation, a professional can suggest tires that will last longer, wear better, resist heat, while maximizing operator comfort.

And if you’re purchasing a new forklift, make sure the right forklift tire is part of the quote. Standard issue tires can work for some operations, but be sure you’re getting the right tire for your operation before you put it into service.

Little known fact: If your forklifts frequently carry loads that are half the rated capacity of the forklift, it puts more pressure on your steer tires as the load up front does not balance out the load of the counterweight.

Keep up the Pressure

Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Over-inflation and under-inflation both cause uneven wear.

Purchase a Premium Tire

We’re not suggesting you simply purchase the most expensive tire. However, purchasing a tire simply because it’s on sale or is the lowest cost alternative, will often end up costing you more in the long-run. After consulting with a professional, there are usually options based upon your operation and budgetary constraints. Finding the BEST tire for your operation, usage, wear and tear, will pay off in the long run. The quality of tire should likely increase with the weight of the load, length of the run and condition of the surface on which it operates.

Match Tires to Application

Use tires that are suitable for the specific conditions of your warehouse, such as cushion tires for indoor use or pneumatic tires for outdoor use.

Rotation and Alignment

• Regular Rotation: Rotate tires regularly to ensure even wear.
• Alignment: Ensure the forklift’s alignment is correct to prevent uneven tire wear.

Frequent Inspections

Pre-shift inspections are required by OSHA and tire inspections are part of that process.  Look for things like stress cracks, tread wear and chunking. Knowing how to determine wear on your tires depends upon the type of tire and how the manufacturer determines it is time to replace. When you purchase your forklift tires, be sure the representative explains how to inspect them and when it is time for “re-tirement.” And make that inspection part of your forklift operator training. All your operators should know how to inspect all your forklift tires.

Keep it Clean

Keeping the surface a forklift operates on clean will provide additional useful life of your forklift tires. Metal bands, shrapnel, nails, screws and the like are the obvious enemies of a forklift tire and if your operation is manufacturing, you probably have plenty of debris to consider. Often times a floor sweeper (rider or push) will pay for itself over time in reduced damage to your tires.

In addition to the obvious culprits there are other concerns with operating surface. Dirt and debris can build which can reduce traction of the forklift tires creating a dangerous operating environment. A regular review of your floor can also reduce damaging factors. Things like uneven concrete joints, cracks in pavement or concrete surfaces and dock plates that are un-even or damaged can reduce wear and increase damage. Some customers even consider the condition of the tractor trailer floors. Things like nails in the floors or large splinters in trailer floors can wreak havoc on your forklift tires.

Creating a regular process for purchasing and caring for forklift tires can provide many benefits to safety, productivity and your bottom line. Our Planned Maintenance program can take a lot of these considerations off your hands. Learn more about it and get a quote tailored to your fleet's needs.

To consult with one of our tire professionals, please contact us at 877-366-7261.

Forklift operators are typically required to undergo refresher training at specific intervals to ensure they continue to operate forklifts safely and effectively. The specific requirements for refresher training can vary by country, region, and organization, but some common guidelines and triggers for refresher training include:

1. Time Intervals: Forklift operators are required to undergo refresher training  every three years. This helps ensure that their skills and knowledge remain up to date.
2. Changes in Equipment or Workplace: If there are significant changes in the type of forklift being used or in the layout of the workplace, refresher training may be necessary to familiarize operators with these changes.
3. Incidents or Near-Misses: After accidents, near-miss incidents, or safety violations related to forklift operation, refresher training may be mandated to address the issues and prevent future incidents.
4. Poor Performance: If an operator demonstrates poor performance or unsafe behavior while operating a forklift, additional training may be required to address these issues.
5. Regulatory Requirements: Local regulations and safety standards can dictate the specific requirements for forklift operator training and refresher training. Employers should ensure compliance with these regulations.
6. Employer Policies: Employers may establish their own policies and guidelines for forklift operator refresher training. These policies should align with safety best practices and local regulations.

You can read the verbiage directly from OSHA HERE. It’s essential for employers to maintain records of forklift operator training and refresher training, as well as to have a clear training and retraining program in place. The goal is to ensure that forklift operators remain competent and safe in their duties. The specific requirements and intervals for refresher training may vary, so it’s important to consult local regulations and industry standards to determine the appropriate schedule for your organization. Midwest is your reliable source for forklift operator training in the Southwest Ohio area. Contact us for scheduling at 877-366-7261.

With warehouse and storage space at a premium, more companies are looking for alternatives to increasing their footprint by expanding current space or purchasing new space. Sometimes a reach truck can be the perfect solution to increasing space, and productivity in your material handling and storage operation. While a reach truck is not suited for all operations, where it can be used, provides three significant benefits.

1. Maneuverability means narrower aisles - Reach trucks are designed for narrow aisles and tight spaces. They have a smaller turning radius, making them more maneuverable than standard forklifts. This allows for efficient navigation in crowded warehouse environments. Often times aisle width can be reduced by 30% or more by utilizing an reach truck. This allows for more aisles within your current space, and more storage.
2. A reach truck has a higher lifting capacity than traditional forklifts - Reach trucks are built to handle taller racks and shelves. They can reach higher lift heights compared to standard forklifts, enabling better utilization of vertical space in the warehouse. CLARK's NPX has a maximum fork height of 210" allowing you to build your racking higher, thus more storage.
3. The reach capability of a reach truck means narrow aisles within your warehouse - Reach trucks have extending forks that can reach into storage areas without the need for the truck to move closer. This feature is particularly useful for double-deep racking systems or when accessing items stored deep within racks. Double-reach means narrower aisles, and more pallet positions in your operation, resulting in increased storage capacity.

For a consultation about the possibility of a reach truck for your operation, and how it might benefits, please Contact Us or give us a call at 877-366-7261.

Long-term rent is a great way to get into new or late model equipment, rarely with cash outlay and improve the performance of your material handling and storage operation. Below are some of the top benefits of renting your equipment on a long-term agreement.

Cash Conservation – There is no cash outlay to obtain equipment under a Long-Term rental agreement. Save your cash for alternatives that produce profits for your bottom line.

Pay for what you use – Long-Term rental agreements are based upon the expected hours and operating conditions that you will use the equipment. Unlike purchasing equipment where you are paying for 100% of asset (a depreciating asset), you pay based upon the expected usage rate of the equipment.

Rental payments are 100% tax deductible* – Rental payments are an operating expense and are 100% deductible as a business expense. No confusing depreciation schedules or damaging tax ramifications at years-end. *(consult your financial adviser to confirm your tax status)

Fixed payments, no maintenance surprises – Long-Term rental agreements typically include normal maintenance. We own the equipment, so maintaining it is our responsibility. Leave the surprises to us and keep your material handling costs consistent and predictable.

Eliminate your parts and service departments – If you currently own your fleet and maintain it you need mechanics, tools and parts. Improve warehouse and plant space by eliminating the need for stocking parts and providing space to service equipment.

Eliminate obsolescence – Long-Term agreements can provide for upgrades should your business change. Don’t get stuck with equipment you no longer need due to a change in your business plans. We will find a home for the old equipment, and provide you with equipment you need today.

Keep your credit line clear – Unlike financing equipment, Long-Term Rentals have little impact on your ability to borrow money to increase your business.

Flexible terms and equipment – Whether you need new or used equipment for your operation we can provide you with the equipment you need at the terms you need. From one year to eight we can build a Long-Term rental agreement that meets your business needs.

Preferred rates on supplemental equipment – Long-Term customers get preferred rates to fill their seasonal demands.

Eliminate stand-by equipment – Do you purchase more than you need to allow for break-downs and cyclical needs? Our forklift rental fleet stands ready to supply you with immediate equipment when a need arises.

Renting hedges against inflation – Reduce the risk of labor and parts prices increases by fixing your monthly payment now for the term of your agreement.

Generate cash now – Trading in your current fleet can generate immediate cash for operations.

Flexibility, reliability and consistency are your results when you rent Long-Term with Midwest Industrial Equipment. In addition you will have the comfort of knowing that you have a team of professionals with a proven track record as a true partner in your material handling operations. We take all the hassle out of acquiring and maintaining a fleet of forklifts and leave you with more time to manage your business.

We would appreciate the opportunity to discuss Long-Term rentals options for your company. To schedule an appointment contact us at 877-366-7261.