rev 3/2003
I General Requirements
Only trained and certified operators are permitted to operate powered industrial trucks. This and other requirements are mandated by the OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration) Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks, 29 CFR 1910.178. The Operator’s Handbook and the OSHA regulations should be referred to for more detailed information.
Powered industrial trucks are mobile, power driven vehicles used to carry, push, pull, lift, stack, or tier materials. Examples include:
- Forklift trucks
- Motorized hand trucks
- Platform trucks
College employees are qualified to operate a powered industrial truck only after they have completed training, successfully completed a written test, and demonstrated proficiency with the truck.
II. Training Procedures
The Facilities Management and Dining Services Departments have designated a trainer to train employees who will operate powered industrial trucks. The trainer is a supervisor with the necessary skill, and who by knowledge, training, or experience, has demonstrated the ability to provide this training and deal with problems that may arise in the course of operating a powered industrial truck.
At a minimum, the training must include a review of the Operators Handbook, the daily inspection log, and information specific to the operation of the equipment to be used. At the conclusion of the classroom training, the employee must successfully complete a written test. After completion of the written test, each employee will undergo a performance test. The “Record of Training and Proficient Operation” must then be completed for each employee. Records are maintained in department compliance files.
The performance of each operator must be evaluated at least every three years by the designated trainer. The trainer will document this evaluation including the operator’s name, date of the evaluation, and evaluator’s name.
Refresher training is required when the operator is:
- The operator is observed performing an unsafe act
- The operator is involved in an accident or near-miss
- A different type of equipment is purchased
- Workplace conditions change
- The evaluation determines that more training is needed
III. Powered Industrial Truck Maintenance and Inspection
Powered industrial trucks must be inspected daily. In the event a vehicle is not going to be used for several days, daily inspection is not required but it must be inspected again before use. Inspections are recorded on the “Operator’s Daily Checklist”. Records are maintained in department compliance files.
Any powered industrial truck not in safe condition must be immediately removed from service and locked or tagged as out-of-service. All repairs must be made by authorized personnel.
Modifications or additions, which affect capacity and safe operation, are not allowed without the manufacturer’s written approval. All nameplates and markings must be maintained in a legible condition.
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