Keep On The Roll: The Importance Of Routine Trolley Castor Inspections

Castor trolley wheels are the unsung heroes of most warehouses, supermarkets, and factories. The sign of a good quality trolley castor is one that you don’t have to think about too often. If you start to notice your trolley castor wheels, it’s normally because they aren’t performing as they should; maybe they are getting stiff or becoming difficult to steer. Frequently, these issues aren’t the result of a quality defect, but simple wear and tear, which is why the key to keeping your warehouse moving is routine trolley castor inspections. Read on to find out more.

What To Check

Regular trolley castor inspections give you the opportunity to check and clean your castors and to spot the early signs of damage. So, what should you check during your inspections?

• Look for any cracks, flat/worn spots, or evidence of wear and tear on your castors.
• Test the castors to make sure that they rotate and swivel correctly without resistance, making note of any stiffness.
• Check that the axle is undamaged - ensure that there is no upward/downward play and that the castor is sitting centrally within the bracket housing.
• Check that your fastenings, fittings, and bolts are secure, with no parts missing or loose.
• Clean your castor of any hair, dirt, or grime that could obstruct movement.
• Verify that your castors are still suitable for the weight/load they are designed to carry.

Regular visual inspections do not take long and have a variety of benefits in the workplace.

What Are The Benefits?

Improved Safety:

Regular spot checks help you identify worn out or damaged wheels that could pose an accident risk, arising from slips, tipping, or loss of control. This can be critical in busy warehouses, supermarkets, and hospitals, where a collision with a loaded trolley can easily injure a pedestrian.

Avoid Damage To Equipment And Stock:

Broken castors can cause wheeled equipment to move unevenly and place excessive strain on the trolley, which can increase the damage risk to the equipment itself and the goods being transported. It also makes it more likely that the trolley could capsize or spill goods onto the floor, causing you costs through damage.

Improved Operational Efficiency:

A clunky trolley is not only difficult to manoeuvre, but also takes longer to get from A to B. Smooth and functional castors help to ensure your trolleys move easily around the floor, reducing the effort required by workers and improving productivity and efficiency.

Save Money On Replacements:

Often, an issue can be avoided through regular cleaning and performance checks. Addressing issues early on can save you money on costly repairs and replacements, minimising your equipment downtime.

Find Out More

Download a copy of our free Castor Brochure to find out more about our range of durable and reliable products. Contact us to learn more about how we can help! 

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