Powered Industrial Trucks - Operator Training 29 CFR 1910.178

Definition A mobile, power-propelled truck used to carry, push, pull, lift, stack or tier materials. Commonly known as forklifts, pallet trucks, rider trucks, forktrucks, or lift trucks. Can be powered through electric or combustion engines.

Reasons for Training Maintain a safe working environment. Required by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178. Powered industrial truck accidents cause approximately 100 fatalities and 36,340 serious injuries in general industry and construction annually. It is estimated that 20 - 25% of the accidents are, at least in part, caused by inadequate training.

Stability Triangle Vehicle Center of Gravity (Unloaded) B A of Vehicle and Maximum Load C Notes: 1. When the vehicle is loaded, the combined center of gravity (CG) shifts toward line B-C. Theoretically the maximum load will result in the CG at the line B-C. In actual practice, the combined CG should never be at line B-C. 2. The addition of additional counterweight will cause the truck CG to shift toward point A and result in a truck that is less stable laterally.

Stability Travel with load uphill when ascending or descending grades. Do not attempt to make a turn on a grade. Load pallets evenly; avoid building up unstable loads which could collapse during movement. Never exceed the load capacity of the PIT. If a vehicle tips, do not attempt to jump clear. Brace yourself, hold onto the steering wheel and lean away form impact.

Safe Operation Pedestrians always have the right-of-way. Stunt driving and horseplay are prohibited at all times. No riders are allowed under any circumstances. Look in the direction of travel. Proceed in a forward direction whenever possible. If driving backwards, proceed slowly while looking in the direction of travel.

Safe Operation Be cautious of edges and open dock doors. The speed at which you travel is limited by the area and conditions where you are traveling. If your view is blocked by the load you are moving, travel with the load trailing. Lower forks near the floor while traveling with or without a load. Wear safety belts or harnesses while operating vehicle.

Intersections and Blind-Spots Stop and sound horn at all blind spots and intersections. Slow down and sound horn in high traffic areas. Do not enter areas of forklift restriction.

PIT Safety Never block fire fighting equipment, emergency exits or alarms with PIT or material. Lower forks to ground when parking vehicle. Set parking brake before exiting vehicle. Be aware of overhead clearances. Report any damage to racks, or other property to supervisor. Never stand or walk under elevated forks.

PIT Inspection Employees are required to complete a PIT Inspection checklist for their vehicle prior to operating at the start of each shift. Take the time to do a proper inspection of the entire vehicle. Any vehicle that is not working properly must be removed from service. Inform your Supervisor of any items that need repaired.

Safe loading and unloading procedure Engage DOK-LOK and or chock trailer wheels. Inspect trailer floor before entering. The forklift driver is the only person that is Permitted to operate the DOK-LOK or chock/unchock trailer wheels. If DOK-LOK’s are not working you must use wheel chocks.