University Human Resource Services
Forklift Safe Operations
General Requirements
Any person operating a fork lift, man lift, scissors lift or other Powered Industrial Vehicle (PIV) must, per OSHA, receive training in safe operation of the equipment and demonstrate competency in driving the equipment. Training must be provided by an approved instructor. Training must be renewed every three years, or when operating conditions change.
Regulation
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178
Keys to Compliance for Supervisors
- Do not allow any employee who has not been trained and certified to operate any PIV.
- Allow the employee to operate only the specific forklift or PIV on which he/she is certified: training and certification is unique for each piece of equipment. If multiple forklifts or PIVS are to be used by an employee, the employee must be trained and certified on each one.
- Take responsibility for or assign responsibility for daily inspections of each forklift or PIV. Document the inspection, and maintain inspection records.
- Make certain all required maintenance is performed.
- If a forklift or PIV does not pass the daily inspection, it must be taken out of service until repairs are done (LOTO).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. If I’ve been trained and certified on one fork lift, why can’t I operate all forklifts?
A. Different forklifts have significantly different handling properties.
Q. How often must forklift certification be done?
A. Every three years.
Q. Where can I get a daily inspection checklist for my forklift?
A. From the manufacturer, EHS or OSHA
Links to written programs, further information
www.ehs.indiana.edu/worker_safety.shtml
