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SECTION B16: INDUSTRIAL LIFT TRUCKS
Introduction
Industrial lift trucks (also known as lift trucks or forklifts) are
used for handling materials, parts, products, tools, equipment, supplies
and maintenance items. Forklifts are efficient for material handling
because they are self-propelled, maneuverable and require only one
operator to lift, transport, stack and unstack material. Forklifts
are powered by battery, propane, gasoline or diesel fuel, and may be
used for indoor or outdoor use depending on their size, tires and load
capacities. The major factors that lead to injuries involving the use
of forklifts include unsafe driving and material handling practices.
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Scope and Application
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements
for industrial lift trucks apply to all operation, servicing and
maintenance of trucks. Departments who own forklifts are responsible
for their
proper maintenance and care and for ensuring that only authorized
operators use the forklift. Departments who employ forklift operators
are responsible
for ensuring operators are trained and certified and that forklifts
are operated in a safe manner.
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Program Description
Training
All lift truck operators must be trained prior to operating a lift truck.
Training is provided by EHS and consists of both formal instruction
and practical training. Training is both vehicle- and workplace-specific.
The training is a one-time requirement unless the operator is involved
in a lift truck accident or is observed operating the truck in an unsafe
manner.
Operator Evaluation
All lift truck operators must be evaluated for each truck they will
be operating. Operators must be re-evaluated on each truck every
three years.
Inspection and Maintenance
Industrial lift trucks must be inspected prior to each day of service.
A daily inspection checklist must be completed and any defects should
be reported and corrected immediately. A truck may not be placed into
service if any defects are found during the inspection.
Roles and Responsibilities
Department
• Identify industrial lift trucks and lift
truck operators
• Ensure lift truck operators are trained and evaluated
• Ensure lift trucks are maintained in good condition
• Take lift trucks out of service when defects are identified
• Have lift trucks repaired immediately
Supervisors
• Ensure lift truck operators are trained and evaluated
• Ensure lift truck operators adhere to proper/safe operating procedures
• Ensure lift truck operators are completing the daily inspection checklist
EHS
• Provide training
• Evaluate operators every three years
• Periodically audit the forklift operator program
Individual
• Attend training and evaluation
• Adhere to proper/safe operating procedures
• Complete the daily inspection checklist
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For More Information
Contact an EHS Safety Engineer at 258-5294.
A copy of OSHA’s regulation, Powered Industrial Trucks, 29 CFR
1910.178, is available through EHS.
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