Forklifts are incredible machines. They allow you to lift, store, drag and move heavy material with a pretty small piece of equipment. But, they are also dangerous and OSHA has a number of requirements for users:
- All operators must have forklift training on the specific equipment they operate
- Operators must have training on the specific equipment
- Operators must be evaluated for the driving and handling capabilities every three years.
- You must maintain the forklift. If it is LP or gas powered, you have to conduct and document quarterly carbon monoxide monitoring.
OSHA recently posted the following:
Did You Know?
In just seven months of establishing a National Emphasis Program to evaluate warehousing and distribution center operations, OSHA led 623 inspections and proposed $2.4 million in penalties. Powered industrial truck (including forklift) violations were cited the most for lack of operator training and poor maintenance.