What Are the OSHA Powered Industrial Truck Inspection Requirements?
Powered industrial trucks ranked seventh in the top ten most frequently violated OSHA standards in 2020. Forklift accidents result in over 80 fatalities every year. They’re also the reason for thousands of serious workplace injuries annually.
OSHA estimates that 20 to 25 percent of these accidents are partly caused by inadequate training. Earlier this year, they announced a proposed rule to update industry standards. Forklift accidents have obviously become a big concern and should be to you too.
Do you use industrial trucks in your line of business? If so, do you adhere to the OSHA powered industrial truck inspection requirements?
If you’re uncertain, read on. You’ll learn more about them and how you can get adequate training and evaluations.
Major Types of Industrial Trucks and Variations
There are several categories of industrial trucks as well as general variations. But it’s important to know OSHA’s definition of an industrial truck. It’s any mobile, power-driven vehicle that’s used to carry, stack, tier, push, lift, or pull material.
Most are powered by electric motors. Others have internal combustion engines.
Wondering if your equipment falls within OSHA’s definition? Here are some common references that may help:
Industrial Trucks with Electric-powered Motors
- Standup End Control Rider
- Walkie Pallet High Lift
- Sitdown Rider
- Tractor Rider
- Narrow Aisle Reach
There are other variations of all the above.
Industrial Trucks with Internal Combustion Engines
- Counterbalanced Forklift with a cushion tire or pneumatic tire
- Terrain Forklift with a vertical mast
- Tow Tractor
These usually use gas, LPG, or diesel. The equipment you have will determine the type of safety checks required for each of them.
It’s important that you also review the Federal Register 87:8755 – 8764 – Powered Industrial Trucks Design Standard Update. This will guide you on adherence to the new requirements.
The Importance of OSHA Powered Industrial Truck Inspection Requirements
Some of the hazards associated with industrial trucks are similar to those of a car. This includes equipment coming into contact with objects or other workers.
There are also risks when the equipment operator speeds. This becomes even more hazardous when maneuvering wet or slippery surfaces.
But some hazards are unique to industrial trucks such as falling loads or tipping over. In-depth training and supervision are major ways to reduce these incidents.
Daily industrial truck inspections can also alert operators to faulty equipment. Have employees use a powered industrial truck inspection checklist before every shift. Let the shift supervisor sign off so that it becomes part of everyone’s daily routine.
This can help with regular maintenance of the forklift. It can also help you meet OSHA requirements.
However, when it comes to ensuring compliance, hiring Atlantic Environmental can help. We specialize in occupational safety. We can provide you with health and safety programs and training. We also do site, equipment, and truck inspections.
Achieving OSHA Compliance and Worker Safety
The safety of your workers should be of paramount importance. OSHA also makes this a priority as the agency charged with worker safety. You must ensure you adhere to the OSHA powered industrial truck inspection requirements.
This can help reduce the number of on-the-job accidents and even fatalities. It can also help you avoid fines or disruptions to your operations due to non-compliance.
However, the number of requirements can be overwhelming. It’s a good idea to get a company that specializes in occupational safety to help you.
Atlantic Environmental can. We’re experts in safety and OSHA powered industrial truck inspections, training, and programs. Contact us today to start yours! We service NJ, NY, PA, CT, DE, and GA.