Maximizing Efficiency and Safety in Operations - Kevin Blacker - Facility Rockstars - Episode # 016

06/27/24 • 27 min

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Kevin Blacker, the Director of Operations at Alta Material Handling. Kevin shares his expert insights on the critical aspects of forklift management, emphasizing the importance of safety, maintenance, and uptime.

Kevin explains that proper operator training is crucial for safety and suggests that facilities implement regular maintenance schedules. Kevin also discusses modern advancements in forklift technology, including LiDAR systems and automated guided vehicles. Additionally, he touches on the importance of maintaining clean and debris-free facilities to ensure operational efficiency.

Takeaways:

Safety, Maintenance, and Uptime: These are critical components for every facility professional operating forklifts. Ensuring these three aspects can significantly reduce downtime and increase overall operational efficiency.
The Importance of Having a Trained Operator: Proper training and certification of forklift operators are paramount. A trained operator is more likely to handle the equipment safely and according to regulations, reducing the risk of accidents.
Maintenance Schedule: Adhering to a strict maintenance schedule, including daily checklists and periodic inspections, is essential. Consistent maintenance helps in identifying potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring the equipment remains operational.
Facility Maintenance: Maintaining the facility itself, such as keeping aisles clear and floors free of debris, directly impacts the performance and longevity of forklifts. A clean environment minimizes the risk of damage to the equipment and enhances safety.
Dusty Environments: For facilities that are particularly dusty, extra care must be taken with electric forklifts. Keeping vents and other components clean is crucial to prevent malfunctions and ensure proper functioning.
Equipment Safety: Perimeter and zone lights are additions that enhance safety by projecting lights to create safety zones around forklifts. This visual deterrent can help prevent accidents, especially in noisy environments where auditory signals might be missed.
Adaptability to Facility Needs: The type of equipment best suited for a facility depends on various factors, including aisle size, load types, and specific operational needs. Facilities must choose forklifts that are adaptable to their unique environments to optimize performance.

Quote of the Show:

"If I had entered this industry earlier and experienced the growth I've seen over the last 10 years, I would have started sooner. It might sound crazy, but while I don't live and die for forklifts, I truly enjoy what I do.”

Links:

Website: https://materialhandling.altg.com
Resources:
- https://materialhandling.altg.com/parts-and-services/training/

Ways to Tune In:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662
YouTube: https://youtu.be/MBAX4hYeCks
Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com

Takeaways:

Safety, Maintenance, and Uptime: These are critical components for every facility professional operating forklifts. Ensuring these three aspects can significantly reduce downtime and increase overall operational efficiency.
The Importance of Having a Trained Operator: Proper training and certification of forklift operators are paramount. A trained operator is more likely to handle the equipment safely and according to regulations, reducing the risk of accidents.
Maintenance Schedule: Adhering to a strict maintenance schedule, including daily checklists and periodic inspections, is essential. Consistent maintenance helps in identifying potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring the equipment remains operational.
Facility Maintenance: Maintaining the facility itself, such as keeping aisles clear and floors free of debris, directly impacts the performance and longevity of forklifts. A clean environment minimizes the risk of damage to the equipment and enhances safety.
Dusty Environments: For facilities that are particularly dusty, extra care must be taken with electric forklifts. Keeping vents and other components clean is crucial to prevent malfunctions and ensure proper functioning.
Equipment Safety: Perimeter and zone lights are additions that enhance safety by projecting lights to create safety zones around forklifts. This visual deterrent can help prevent accidents, especially in noisy environments where auditory signals might be missed.
Adaptability to Facility Needs: The type of equipment best suited for a facility depends on various factors, including aisle size, load types, and specific operational needs. Facilities must choose forklifts that are adaptable to their unique environments to optimize performance.

Quote of the Show:

"If I had entered this industry earlier and experienced the growth I've seen over the last 10 years, I would have started sooner. It might sound crazy, but while I don't live and die for forklifts, I truly enjoy what I do.”

Links:

Website: https://materialhandling.altg.com
Resources:
- https://materialhandling.altg.com/parts-and-services/training/

Ways to Tune In:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662
YouTube: https://youtu.be/MBAX4hYeCks
Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com

Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com

Previous Episode

Meaningful Connections: The Key to Success - John Menard - Facility Rockstars - Episode # 015

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, we delve into the insights of John Menard, a seasoned entrepreneur renowned for his prowess in scaling companies. Currently spearheading Trailblaze Bio, John shares invaluable advice on leveraging networking opportunities for career advancement. Emphasizing the importance of every conversation, he reveals practical strategies such as flagged emails and consistent follow-ups to nurture professional relationships.

John elucidates on managing operations within small biotech firms, stressing the need for agility and lean management amid financial constraints and rapid expansion. His expertise extends to cultivating reliable vendor partnerships and making strategic real estate decisions pivotal for early-stage ventures. Moreover, John underscores the equilibrium between work and personal life, advocating for outsourcing non-core functions to ensure sustainable growth. Join us as we explore John Menard's blueprint for navigating the dynamic landscape of biotech startups.

Takeaways:

Never Turn Down a Conversation: Emphasize the importance of engaging with people who reach out to you, as these connections can prove valuable in both your career and personal life. Every interaction, no matter how small, can potentially lead to new opportunities, collaborations, or insights that may not be immediately apparent.
Structured Networking Routine: Discuss a disciplined approach to networking, which involves flagging non-urgent messages and setting aside dedicated time each week to follow up on networking opportunities. Stress the significance of maintaining a consistent and structured networking routine to nurture relationships and stay connected within the professional community.
Agility and Lean Operations in Startups: Highlight the necessity of being agile and maintaining lean operations in small biotech companies. Emphasize the importance of efficiently managing resources, optimizing processes, and adapting quickly to changes in order to scale up the business rapidly while minimizing unnecessary expenditures.
Building Trusted Vendor Relationships: Emphasize the critical nature of cultivating long-term, reliable relationships with vendors. This involves not only ensuring timely payments but also creating a supportive environment where vendors feel valued and motivated to deliver high-quality services consistently. Building trust with vendors can significantly enhance operational efficiency and overall business performance.
Managing Work-Life Balance: Share insights into achieving a healthy work-life balance. Stress the importance of unplugging from work, dedicating time to hobbies and family, and prioritizing personal well-being. By maintaining a balanced lifestyle, individuals can recharge mentally and physically, leading to improved productivity and creativity in their professional endeavors.
Pitfalls in Real Estate Obligations: Advise startups to approach real estate decisions cautiously, particularly in the early stages of growth. Suggest avoiding committing substantial resources to long-term real estate obligations and instead exploring flexible alternatives like incubator spaces. This approach allows startups to remain financially nimble and adapt their physical workspace according to evolving business needs.
Outsourcing Non-Core Functions: Introduce the concept of outsourcing non-core business functions to specialized service providers. Explain how leveraging on-demand services for tasks such as IT, HR, and finance can reduce overhead costs, access specialized expertise, and scale operations more efficiently. This strategic outsourcing enables startups to focus their internal resources on core business activities critical to achieving their mission and growth objectives.

Quote of the Show:

“Never turn down a conversation. Making those connections with people, that's always the most important thing.

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-menard/

Ways to Tune In:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662
YouTube:
Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com <...

Next Episode

Policy, Politics, and Personalities - Pat Furze- Facility Rockstars - Episode # 017

In this 4th of July edition of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Pat Furze, the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at FMC Ice Sports. Pat discusses the importance of adhering to policies in business operations and the challenges of managing ice facilities, especially during the off season and in the case of a power outage. Pat explains how holidays can either boost or hinder their business and how they creatively utilize their facilities for non-ice events during off-seasons.

Pat also highlights the significance of effective communication, the 'three Ps' (policies, politics, and personalities), and maintaining compliance with state regulations. Additionally, Pat shares insights from his earlier work experience with the Boston Celtics and emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact in the community.

Takeaways:

Prioritize Clear Communication: It all goes back to communication. Ensure that open and transparent communication channels are in place. This prevents misunderstandings and builds trust within your team. Encourage regular updates and feedback loops to keep everyone aligned.
Adhere to Established Policies: Stick to the policies that are outlined. Consistency is key to maintaining order and fairness in your organization. Deviating from established policies can lead to confusion and might compromise the integrity of the management.
Provide Clarity and Justifications for Decisions: Explaining the 'why' behind decisions is crucial. When people understand the reasoning, they are more likely to accept and support the outcomes, even if they don't agree with them. This approach helps in building a culture of transparency and inclusiveness.
Embrace and Address Challenges Head-On: You can't hide from the hard stuff. Addressing difficult issues directly, rather than avoiding them, helps prevent bigger problems down the line. This approach develops resilience and problem-solving skills within the team.
Focus on Policy Adherence for Long-Term Stability: Continuously sticking to policies, even when it's challenging, ensures long-term stability and predictability in operations. It prevents a 'slippery slope' effect where exceptions become the rule and operational consistency deteriorates.
Accept that Not Everyone Will Be Satisfied: It's important to recognize that you will never make 100% of the people happy. Focus on making decisions that are in the best interest of the organization and the majority of stakeholders. Accepting this fact can help in making fair and balanced decisions.
Manage Expectations Through Effective Communication: Continually communicate to manage expectations. This involves not just the initial communication but follow-ups and updates as situations evolve. It ensures all parties are aware of what is happening and why, which reduces frustration and uncertainty.

Quote of the Show: