OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart O 1926.602(c)(1)(i). Lift trucks, stackers, etc., shall have the rated capacity clearly posted on the vehicle so as to be clearly visible to the operator. When auxiliary removable counterweights are provided by the manufacturer, corresponding alternate rated capacities also shall be clearly shown on the vehicle. These ratings shall not be exceeded.
OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart O 1926.602(c)(1)(ii). No modifications or additions which affect the capacity or safe operation of the equipment shall be made without the manufacturer’s written approval. If such modifications or changes are made, the capacity, operation, and maintenance instruction plates, tags, or decals shall be changed accordingly. In no case should the original safety factor of the equipment be reduced.
OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart O 1926.602(c)(1)(vi). All industrial trucks in use shall meet the applicable requirements of design, construction, stability, inspection, testing, maintenance, and operation, as defined in American National Standards Institute B56.1-1969, Safety Standards for Powered Industrial Trucks.
OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart O 1926.602(c)(1)(vii). Unauthorized personnel shall not be permitted to ride on powered industrial trucks. A safe place to ride shall be provided where riding of trucks is authorized
OSHA Standard 1910.178(l). The requirements applicable to construction work above are identical supplemented by the powered industrial truck requirements. All operators must have specialized training and renewed every 3 years.
Lesson Objectives: Regulations and requirements, common hazards and injuries, classifications, material lifts vs. automobile components, operational situations, inspecting equipment, and training requirements.
Regulations: Federal, state, employer, and customer site. Operator Requirements: Certified, authorized, 18 years of age, adequately trained, and competent in specific types.
Classifications Class: Class 1 electric (sit), Class 2 electric (standing), Class 3 (hand truck), Class 4 truck (solid tires), Class 5 (pneumatic tires), Class 6 (industrial tractor truck), and Class 7 (rough terrain truck). You are required to be trained in each specific class you are operating.
- Telehandler Telescopic: Or reach forklift Boom and extendable arm 5,500 lbs. lift Up to 50 ft high Tight spaces and odd angles
- Industrial Forklift Large capacity: Lift heavier loads 30,000 lbs. max lift Utility is more specialized
- Data Plate Legible Specifies load capacity: Lift height Center balance Brand Model number
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!
- Forklifts vs. Automobiles – Weight center of gravity, stability steering, reduced acceleration, and increased braking distance.
- Training – Formal instruction and hands-on demonstration with evaluation equipment, type-specific and evaluated, are required every three years with refresher training.
- Forklift Hazards – Improper operation, pedestrians, unsecured loads, poor maintenance, ground conditions, over-capacity loads, overhead obstructions, and operator error.
- Common Injuries – Struck or crushed, caught in-between, falling from heights, and falling off a load
- Center of Gravity – Load weight, load height, position of forks, changes in speed, and changes in direction. Load charts must be visible at all times including attachments.
- Stability – Keep loads low to the ground. Have caution when turning, stopping, starting, and cradling (tilt load backward).
- Maneuvering Tight Areas and Corners – Swing wide and pay close attention to your surroundings. Navigate work zones, narrow or cluttered aisles, and high pedestrian traffic.
- Speed – Be cautious when driving and obey speed limit signage. Do not turn fast. Remember that weight and speed create momentum.
- Visibility Obstructed View – To enhance visibility and safety, position yourself facing the direction of travel, familiarize yourself with the route, anticipate blind spots, obstacles, and hazards, and be prepared for challenges such as poor lighting and adverse weather conditions. Utilize spotters when available, guide pedestrians away from danger zones, mark and secure work areas, establish eye contact with others, regularly check rearview mirrors, and ensure proper use of headlights.
- Inspections – Do a pre-use inspection. Report any problems, check operating controls, mast and overhead guard, tires, and fluid levels. Confirm safety devices, check for leaks, and ensure forks are in good condition. Avoid other potential hazards by not operating if repairs are needed, and never modify without manufacturer authorization.
- Mount and Dismount – Never jump off of equipment. Face the machine, use the three points of contact, ensure handles are secure, and do not use controls or steering wheel as stability. Watch your step and wear quality work boots.
- No Horseplay – This can result in life-threatening consequences. Do not lift people, ride on equipment or forks, perform stunt driving or racing, and never steer toward pedestrians.
- Pedestrians Awareness of Conditions – Separate pedestrian traffic, keep workers clear, never drive toward a pedestrian, yield to pedestrians and use a spotter.
- Floor or Ground – Create visual walkways, identify where it is safe to drive, keep pedestrian traffic away, identify safe routes, and improve traffic flow and ground Cconditions. Manage ground obstructions, clear obstructions, avoid floor hazards, and mark hazardous areas.
- Ramp Operations – Never raise a load and turn. Carry loads as low as possible, Drive slowly, and straight, and set parking brakes and chocks if parking.
- Power Lines Are Dangerous and Deadly – Power lines pose a large risk to operators and workers. Inspect the workplace, identify overhead power lines, treat all lines as if they were live, and remain 20 feet away.
- You are not permitted to operate a material lift unless you are trained and currently certified (within 3 years).
