The Complete Guide to Industrial Hydraulic Sweeping from Hall-Fast

Introduction: Why the BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper Is the Industry Standard

Keeping an industrial premises clean is not simply a matter of appearances. In warehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centres, and logistics hubs across the United Kingdom, the accumulation of debris, dust, and waste materials on floors and in yards presents genuine operational and safety risks. Slip-and-trip accidents remain one of the most common causes of workplace injury, and airborne dust particles can compromise both respiratory health and the functionality of sensitive machinery. For facilities managers and operations directors seeking a robust, efficient, and compliant cleaning solution, the BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper represents the definitive answer.

Available from Hall-Fast Industrial Supplies, the BEMA 40 is a premium-grade hydraulic sweeping attachment that transforms any standard forklift truck into a powerful and versatile cleaning machine. Engineered in Germany to exacting standards and fully compliant with the Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC), the BEMA 40 delivers near-dust-free sweeping performance across both indoor and outdoor environments. Whether your facility handles fine production dust, coarse construction debris, gravel, leaves, or general yard waste, this machine is designed to handle it all with remarkable efficiency.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore every aspect of the BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper, from its technical specifications and engineering philosophy to practical installation guidance, maintenance best practices, and the regulatory context that makes professional sweeping equipment an essential investment for UK businesses. By the end, you will have a thorough understanding of why the BEMA 40 has earned its reputation as the ultimate forklift-mounted hydraulic sweeper on the market, and why Hall-Fast is the supplier of choice for businesses that demand quality, compliance, and expert support.

What Is a Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper?

A forklift hydraulic sweeper is an industrial cleaning attachment that mounts directly to a standard forklift truck and uses the vehicle’s existing hydraulic system to power a rotating brush mechanism. Rather than requiring a separate, dedicated sweeping machine with its own engine, fuel supply, and operator, a hydraulic sweeper allows businesses to leverage equipment they already own, converting an idle forklift into an effective sweeping unit within minutes.

The concept is elegantly simple: the sweeper fits onto the forklift’s carriage or fork pockets, connects to the truck’s spare hydraulic function via quick-release hoses, and the operator drives the forklift as normal while the sweeper’s brush rotates at speed, gathering debris into an integrated collection hopper. When the hopper is full, the forklift raises its mast to tip and empty the collected material into a skip or waste container. The entire operation requires only one person and one vehicle, making it an extraordinarily cost-effective approach to premises cleaning.

How Hydraulic Sweepers Differ from Manual and Ride-On Sweepers

Manual sweeping with brooms and shovels is labour-intensive, inconsistent in its results, and extremely time-consuming across large floor areas. Dedicated ride-on sweeping machines, while powerful, represent a significant capital expenditure, require their own maintenance schedules, and take up valuable storage space when not in use. A forklift hydraulic sweeper occupies the sweet spot between these two approaches, offering mechanised sweeping power at a fraction of the cost of a standalone machine, while delivering results that manual methods simply cannot match.

The BEMA 40, in particular, goes well beyond the capabilities of basic push-broom style forklift attachments. Its fully enclosed casing, powerful Gerotormotor drive, and precision-engineered brush system place it firmly in the premium category of hydraulic sweepers, capable of handling the most demanding indoor and outdoor cleaning tasks with near-dust-free performance.

BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper: Complete Technical Specifications

Understanding the technical specifications of the BEMA 40 is essential for making an informed purchasing decision and ensuring the sweeper is compatible with your existing forklift fleet. The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of every critical specification.

Sweeping Width Options

The BEMA 40 is available in three sweeping width configurations to suit different operational requirements:

Choosing the correct sweeping width is a matter of balancing coverage with manoeuvrability. The 1,250 mm model is ideal for operations where the sweeper needs to navigate between racking, equipment, or parked vehicles. The 1,550 mm variant offers a versatile middle ground that suits the majority of general industrial applications. The 2,050 mm model delivers maximum area coverage per pass, dramatically reducing cleaning times across expansive floor areas and open yards.

Main Brush Specifications

At the heart of the BEMA 40’s cleaning performance is its 660 mm diameter main brush, constructed from PPM (polypropylene) industrial-grade segments. This is a significant step up from the smaller 520 mm and 580 mm brushes found on the BEMA 20 and BEMA 25 models respectively, providing greater debris contact area and more aggressive sweeping action.

The brush operates at a recommended speed of 100 to 150 revolutions per minute, with infinitely variable settings that allow the operator to adjust brush pressure and contact according to the type and degree of surface contamination. Fine dust on a smooth warehouse floor demands a different setting from heavy gravel and aggregate on a rough outdoor yard, and the BEMA 40’s adjustable system accommodates this range of requirements with precision.

The brush height is controlled via a Verstellspindel (adjustment spindle), enabling tool-free, stepless fine-tuning that ensures optimal contact between the bristles and the floor surface at all times. This continuous adjustability also means the brush can be lowered incrementally as the bristles wear over time, extending the useful life of each brush set before replacement is required.

Hydraulic Drive System

The BEMA 40 is powered by a high-performance Gerotormotor with an internal drive shaft of 32 mm diameter in the heavy series configuration. This motor is entirely enclosed within the sweeper’s housing, protecting it from debris, dust, and impact damage throughout its operational life. The hydraulic system requires a connection to the forklift’s spare hydraulic function and operates with the following parameters:

The system includes a sophisticated hydroblock that serves as the central control and protection unit for the entire hydraulic circuit. This hydroblock incorporates an overpressure valve to prevent system damage from pressure spikes, protection against sweeping roller overrun, and a switch valve for connecting optional rotary side brushes. A premium hydroblock upgrade is available for operations requiring enhanced control capabilities.

Collection Hopper and Dust Control

One of the defining features of the BEMA 40 is its large, enclosed hydraulic waste collection hopper. This hopper is fitted with a Vulkolan strip seal that minimises dust escape during the sweeping process, and its generous capacity allows operators to sweep large areas without frequent emptying stops. When the hopper is full, the forklift simply raises the attachment to tip the contents into a skip or container at a convenient height, a process that takes seconds and requires no manual shovelling or handling of waste material.

The entire sweeper housing is fully encapsulated, creating an enclosed environment that dramatically reduces the generation and dispersal of airborne dust. This is a critical feature for indoor operations where air quality is a concern, and it sets the BEMA 40 apart from open-frame sweeper designs that can actually worsen dust problems by stirring particles into the air without capturing them. An all-round protective dust skirt and rubber bumpers further enhance containment, while protecting the sweeper itself and any structures or equipment it passes close to during operation.

Mobility and Ground Contact

The BEMA 40 rides on super-elastic wheels measuring 200 mm x 80 mm in diameter, constructed with vulcanised elastic rubber, ball bearings, and dust caps for long-lasting, maintenance-free performance. These wheels are rail-safe, meaning they will not become trapped in floor-level drainage channels, rail tracks, or expansion joints that are common in industrial environments. A third support wheel measuring 250 mm x 80 mm provides additional stability and level compensation, ensuring consistent brush contact across uneven surfaces.

The sweeper’s mechanical swivelling system allows for smooth and responsive directional changes, giving operators precise control over the sweeping path. This is particularly valuable when navigating around obstacles, sweeping along walls and kerbs, or cleaning in tight spaces where manoeuvrability is essential.

Optional Equipment and Accessories

The BEMA 40’s modular design supports a range of optional accessories that extend its capabilities to meet specialised requirements. These options can be specified at the time of purchase or retrofitted to existing units.

Hydraulic Rotary Side Brushes

Available for the left side, right side, or both, these 800 mm diameter hydraulic side brushes extend the effective sweeping width and enable the operator to clean right up to walls, kerbs, and the base of racking or shelving. Each side brush is equipped with the bema SideControl system, which combines a three-way valve and speed controller for comfortable and precise operation. Brush trim options include PPN industrial, steel and PPN multi-mix, and steel flat wire and PPN combinations, allowing the side brushes to be configured for specific surface types and debris conditions.

Water Spray System

For environments where even the BEMA 40’s enclosed housing does not provide sufficient dust suppression, an optional water spray system is available. This system comprises a 200-litre water tank with an integrated tank filter and a 12/24V electric pressure pump that delivers a fine mist of water directly into the path of the main brush and optional rotary side brushes. The water binds fine dust particles before they can become airborne, making the sweeping process virtually dust-free. This option is particularly valuable in food processing environments, pharmaceutical facilities, and any workplace where airborne particulate must be strictly controlled.

bema Control Unit

The bema Control unit is an electronic control system that includes a wireless remote controller, enabling the operator to manage electrical and hydraulic functions from the comfort of the forklift cab without leaving the seat. This system becomes available when three or more controllable functions are fitted to the sweeper, providing a centralised and convenient interface for managing brush speed, side brush operation, and water spray activation.

Mounting Options

While the standard BEMA 40 is configured for forklift attachment with a pocket size of 180 mm x 80 mm and a tool-free levelling system, alternative mounting configurations are available for wheel loaders, yard loaders, and tractors. The wheel and yard loader quick-change adaptor and the tractor mounting adapter both include integrated levelling systems, ensuring the sweeper maintains optimal ground contact regardless of the carrier vehicle.

Industrial Applications: Where the BEMA 40 Excels

The versatility of the BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper makes it suitable for an extraordinarily wide range of industrial and commercial applications. Its ability to handle both fine dust and coarse debris, combined with near-dust-free operation and a large collection hopper, means it can be deployed effectively in environments that would defeat less capable sweeping equipment.

Manufacturing Facilities and Production Halls

Manufacturing processes inevitably generate waste material, from metal swarf and plastic shavings to packaging offcuts and general production dust. The BEMA 40’s adjustable brush system and enclosed housing make it ideal for maintaining clean production floors, reducing contamination risk, and supporting quality management systems. The water spray option is particularly valuable in environments where dust from machining, grinding, or sanding operations must be controlled to protect both workers and finished products.

Warehouses and Distribution Centres

Large-scale warehousing operations demand clean aisles for the safe and efficient movement of forklift trucks, pallet trucks, and pedestrians. Debris on warehouse floors can cause tyre damage to material handling equipment, create trip hazards for staff, and impede the smooth running of automated systems. The BEMA 40’s range of sweeping widths allows it to be matched precisely to the aisle widths found in the facility, while its enclosed hopper prevents swept material from being redistributed by draughts or vehicle movement.

Construction Sites and Building Material Yards

The construction industry generates vast quantities of coarse debris including concrete dust, aggregate, sand, timber offcuts, and packaging waste. The BEMA 40’s robust construction, heavy-duty brush, and powerful hydraulic drive make it more than capable of tackling these challenging materials. Its use on construction sites and in builder’s merchants’ yards helps maintain site safety, reduce vehicle maintenance costs caused by debris damage, and present a professional appearance to clients and visitors.

Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Plants

Industries subject to stringent hygiene and contamination control requirements benefit greatly from the BEMA 40’s near-dust-free operation and optional water spray system. Keeping production areas free from particulate contamination is essential for regulatory compliance in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, and the BEMA 40 provides a systematic, consistent approach to floor cleanliness that supports audit readiness and HACCP planning.

Car Parks, Retail Parks, and Public Spaces

Commercial property managers responsible for maintaining car parks, retail parks, industrial estates, and similar outdoor areas find the BEMA 40 an invaluable tool for keeping surfaces clean, presentable, and safe. Leaves, litter, sand, and general detritus accumulate rapidly in these environments, and the BEMA 40’s large sweeping width and high-capacity hopper allow vast areas to be cleaned quickly and efficiently.

Logistics Hubs and Loading Bays

The areas around loading docks and goods-in bays are subject to constant contamination from palletised goods, packaging materials, and vehicle movements. Keeping these areas clean is essential for both operational efficiency and compliance with workplace health and safety regulations. The BEMA 40 can be deployed as part of a regular cleaning routine that takes only minutes to complete, ensuring loading areas remain clear, safe, and ready for the next delivery.

Installation and Setup: Getting Your BEMA 40 Up and Running

One of the most significant practical advantages of the BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper is the speed and simplicity of its installation. Unlike standalone sweeping machines that require their own storage, fuelling, and maintenance infrastructure, the BEMA 40 integrates directly with your existing forklift fleet.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

The installation process is straightforward and can typically be completed in a matter of minutes by a competent forklift operator. First, the sweeper is positioned on the ground with the fork pockets facing upward, and the forklift approaches and slides its forks into the attachment pockets. The tool-free levelling system is then adjusted to ensure the sweeper sits level and the brush makes even contact with the ground across its full width.

Next, the hydraulic hoses are connected to the forklift’s spare hydraulic function using the quick-release couplings provided. If the forklift does not have a spare hydraulic function available, it is possible to break into the existing sideshift hydraulic service to power the sweeper, though this does mean the sideshift cannot be used simultaneously with the sweeper. For the optional water spray system, an electrical connection is also required to power the electric pressure pump.

Once the mechanical and hydraulic connections are made, the operator can test the system by engaging the hydraulic function to spin the brush. The brush height should be checked and adjusted as necessary using the adjustment spindle, and the operator should confirm that the collection hopper raises and tips correctly. The entire setup process, from approaching the sweeper to completing the first sweeping pass, typically takes less than ten minutes.

Compatibility Considerations

Before fitting a BEMA 40 or any attachment to a forklift truck, it is essential to verify that the additional weight of the sweeper does not exceed the truck’s rated residual capacity. Adding an attachment to a forklift changes the vehicle’s centre of gravity and reduces its effective load capacity, which means a new capacity plate may be required. Operators should consult the forklift manufacturer’s documentation and, if necessary, arrange for a reassessment of the truck’s rated capacity to ensure continued safe operation.

The forklift’s hydraulic system must also be capable of delivering the minimum fluid throughput required by the BEMA 40, which is between 15 and 20 litres per minute at a maximum operating pressure of 180 bar. Most modern forklift trucks in the two-tonne-and-above class will comfortably meet these requirements, but it is always advisable to check the hydraulic specifications of your particular vehicle before purchasing.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Your BEMA 40 in Peak Condition

The BEMA 40 is engineered for durability and low maintenance, but like any piece of industrial equipment, it will deliver its best performance and longest service life when maintained according to a regular schedule. The following guidance covers the key maintenance tasks that operators and maintenance teams should be aware of.

Brush Inspection and Replacement

The main brush and any fitted side brushes are the primary wear items on the BEMA 40. The rate of brush wear depends on the operating surface, the type and volume of debris being swept, and the frequency of use. Operators should visually inspect the brush condition regularly and monitor the adjustment spindle position to gauge remaining brush life. When the brush can no longer be lowered sufficiently to maintain effective ground contact, it is time for a replacement set. BEMA offers a range of brush options including PPN industrial, steel and PPN multi-mix, and steel flat wire and PPN combination trims, allowing the replacement brush to be specified for the specific conditions it will encounter.

Hydraulic System Checks

The hydraulic connections between the sweeper and the forklift should be inspected regularly for signs of leakage, wear, or damage to hoses and couplings. Any fluid loss should be investigated and rectified promptly to prevent both performance degradation and environmental contamination. The hydroblock and Gerotormotor are sealed units that require no routine user maintenance, but any unusual noises, vibrations, or performance changes should be reported to a qualified service engineer.

General Cleaning and Inspection

After each use, the collection hopper should be emptied completely, and the interior of the sweeper housing should be checked for any accumulated material that could impede brush rotation or hopper movement. The dust skirts and rubber bumpers should be inspected for damage and replaced if torn or excessively worn, as these components are essential for maintaining the sweeper’s dust containment performance. The support wheels should be checked for wear, and the bearings should be inspected for smooth operation.

Warranty Coverage

BEMA provides a twelve-month warranty on all new products from the date of despatch, covering defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is conditional upon faults being reported immediately and the faulty components being made available for inspection. The warranty does not cover wear and tear, damage caused by inadequate maintenance, improper use, modification, or incorrect installation. Replaced parts carry a ninety-day warranty.

Health, Safety, and Regulatory Compliance

Operating industrial equipment in the United Kingdom carries significant legal obligations, and the BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper has been designed from the ground up to help businesses meet these requirements.

Machinery Directive and CE/UKCA Marking

The BEMA 40 is fully certified to the Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC) and carries both CE and UKCA markings, confirming that it meets the essential health and safety requirements for machinery sold and operated in the European Economic Area and the United Kingdom. Every unit is supplied with a Certificate of Conformity, providing documented evidence of compliance that can be presented to HSE inspectors, auditors, and insurance assessors as required.

Workplace Health, Safety, and Welfare Regulations

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 place specific obligations on employers to maintain workplace floors and traffic routes in a condition that does not expose any person to health or safety risks. This includes keeping floors free from obstructions, spillages, and accumulations of debris that could cause slips, trips, or falls. The use of a BEMA 40 as part of a regular cleaning regime provides a systematic and auditable means of meeting these requirements, with the sweeper’s consistent, thorough performance delivering results that manual methods cannot reliably achieve.

COSHH and Dust Control

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 require employers to assess and control exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace, which includes airborne dust generated by industrial processes and cleaning activities. The BEMA 40’s fully enclosed housing and optional water spray system provide effective engineering controls for dust suppression, helping employers demonstrate that they have taken reasonably practicable steps to minimise worker exposure to airborne particulate in compliance with COSHH requirements.

Risk Assessment and Safe Use

As with any forklift attachment, the use of the BEMA 40 should be incorporated into the facility’s risk assessment process. Key considerations include the effect of the attachment on the forklift’s rated capacity and stability, the training and competence of operators, the identification of appropriate operating speeds and procedures, and the management of pedestrian traffic in areas where the sweeper is in use. Hall-Fast supplies every BEMA 40 unit fully tested and certified for compliance with the latest Health and Safety Regulations, giving buyers confidence that the equipment itself meets all applicable standards.

Comparing the BEMA Range: BEMA 20, BEMA 25, and BEMA 40

BEMA manufactures a range of forklift hydraulic sweepers at different price and performance points, and understanding the differences between them helps buyers select the model that best fits their operational requirements and budget.

The BEMA 20 offers a cost-effective entry point for businesses with straightforward outdoor sweeping requirements. The BEMA 25 steps up in brush size and build quality, providing a reliable everyday outdoor sweeper that suits general factory and yard use. The BEMA 40 represents the top of the range, with its fully enclosed housing, larger brush, advanced hydroblock system, and dual indoor-outdoor capability making it the clear choice for businesses that demand the highest standards of cleaning performance, dust control, and operational flexibility.

The BEMA Sweezy 40 WD: A Wheel-Driven Alternative

For businesses operating electric forklifts and looking to maximise battery runtime, the BEMA Sweezy 40 WD offers an innovative wheel-driven alternative to the hydraulically powered BEMA 40. This sweeper features its own closed hydraulic system driven by wheel contact with the ground, eliminating the need to connect to the forklift’s hydraulic circuit entirely.

The Sweezy 40 WD’s independent drive system requires up to fifty per cent less power from the carrier vehicle compared to a conventional hydraulic sweeper, effectively tripling the operating time of an electric forklift on a single battery charge. Its plug-and-sweep design means no hydraulic or electrical connections are needed; the operator simply mounts the sweeper and begins working immediately. The Sweezy 40 WD is available in 1,250 mm, 1,550 mm, and 1,850 mm sweeping widths and features the same fully encapsulated housing and low-dust sweeping capability as the BEMA 40 range.

While the Sweezy 40 WD is an excellent choice for electric forklift operations, the standard BEMA 40 remains the preferred option where maximum brush power and performance are required, particularly for heavy outdoor sweeping duties and the removal of stubborn, compacted debris.

Why Choose Hall-Fast for Your BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper

Hall-Fast Industrial Supplies has been a trusted name in the UK industrial supply sector since its founding in August 2006 by Malcolm Hall MBE. Based in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, the company has grown from a small family business into an international supplier serving over 150,000 customers across more than 100 countries worldwide. With a product range encompassing over 200,000 items from leading industrial brands, Hall-Fast offers unparalleled breadth of supply combined with deep expertise and exceptional customer service.

Industry Recognition and Awards

Hall-Fast’s commitment to quality and service has been recognised with multiple prestigious business awards, including several East Midlands Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. These accolades reflect the company’s dedication to exceeding customer expectations, investing in operational excellence, and contributing positively to the regional and national economy.

Expert Technical Support

Purchasing industrial equipment is a significant decision, and Hall-Fast’s knowledgeable team is available to provide expert advice on selecting the right BEMA sweeper model and configuration for your specific operational requirements. Whether you need guidance on sweeping widths, brush types, optional accessories, or forklift compatibility, the Hall-Fast team can draw on years of experience to help you make the right choice.

Compliance and Certification

Every BEMA forklift sweeper supplied by Hall-Fast is delivered fully tested and certified for compliance with the latest Health and Safety Regulations. Each unit comes with a Certificate of Conformity confirming compliance with the Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC), and carries UKCA and CE markings as appropriate. This comprehensive certification gives buyers peace of mind that their equipment meets all applicable legal requirements from the moment it arrives on site.

Delivery and Service

Hall-Fast offers free delivery on all online orders over £54.99 to UK mainland addresses, ensuring that your BEMA 40 arrives promptly and without unexpected additional costs. For bulk orders, custom configurations, or specific technical enquiries, the Hall-Fast sales team can be contacted directly on 01623 645 645 or by email for personalised assistance.

Calculating the Return on Investment

Investing in a BEMA 40 Forklift Hydraulic Sweeper delivers measurable financial returns across multiple dimensions of your operation. While the initial purchase price represents a meaningful investment, the ongoing operational savings quickly justify the expenditure.

Labour Cost Reduction

The most immediate and quantifiable benefit is the dramatic reduction in labour costs associated with premises cleaning. A single forklift operator equipped with a BEMA 40 can clean floor areas in a fraction of the time required by a team of manual sweepers. In a typical warehouse or yard environment, the BEMA 40 can reduce cleaning labour requirements by seven