Coleraine Minerals Research Laboratory
Power Industrial Trucks
Prepared by: Mahjoub Labyad, MISUMD Environmental Health and Safety Office218-726-7273
August 2009
What are Powered Industrial Trucks
A mobile, power-propelled truck used to carry, push, pull, lift, stack or tier materials. [American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) definition]
Commonly known as Forklifts, Pallet Trucks, Rider Trucks, Fork Trucks, or Lift Trucks.
Powered through either electric, or combustion engines.
Excluded are vehicles used for earth moving and over-the-road hauling.
Examples of PITs
Scope of the StandardThe provisions of 29CFR-1910.178(a), which are based
on ANSI B56.1 – 1969 cover: fork trucks, tractors, platform lift trucks, motorized
hand trucks, and other specialized industrial trucks powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines.
It does not apply to compressed air or nonflammable compressed gas-operated industrial trucks, farm vehicles, nor vehicles intended primarily for earth moving or over-the-road hauling.
This scope covers general industry (Coleraine/University), construction, and shipyards.
Accident Stats
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.
Video Presentation
Click to play movie:
1. PIT Driver Breaks His Back
2. Stay in the Cab Stay Alive
Performance Oriented Training
The PIT operator training requirements are performance-oriented. It permits CMRL to tailor a training program to the characteristics of the Coleraine facility workplace and to the particular types of power industrial trucks operated in on our work-site .
Operator Training
Competency To make sure that each PIT operator is
competent to operate a the truck safely, as specified in the OSHA standard.
Except for training purposes, all operators must successfully complete this required PIT training, or show proof of a previously completed training in order to operate any PIT at Coleraine Minerals Research Lab.
Training Program Implementation
Trainees may operate a PIT only: Under direct supervision of a person
who has the knowledge, training, and experience to train operators and evaluate their competence; and
Where such operation does not endanger the trainee or other employees or causes property damage.
Unique Characteristics of PIT
Each type of powered industrial truck has its own unique characteristics and some inherent hazards.
To be effective, training must address the unique characteristics of the type of vehicles used at the worksite, and which the employee is being trained to operate.(Gather employees around the each of your PIT’s and do an inspection and review PIT’s particular characteristics)
Coleraine Power Industrial Trucks and Aerial Lifts
Coleraine currently has ___ PITs and ___ Aerial Lifts in use ___ Boom trucks
Requirement
Training is required for any person controlling or riding any of these PITs
Pre-Operation Assessment
Pre-operation assessment must be preformed before using/operating a PIT(an inspection form must be filled out each time)
Vehicle Assessment
Environment Assessment
Vehicle Assessment Walk-around Inspection checking
for damage or missing parts Electrical components, wiring and
electrical cables Hydraulic hoses and fittings Nuts bolts and other fasteners Weld or structural cracks Decals and the Operating Instruction
Manual are legible and in place
Vehicle Assessment Function Tests
Make sure all controls are labeled and operating correctly Including emergency stops and controls
Make sure operating controls do not work when emergency stop is engaged
Repair any damage or malfunctions before operating equipment.
Environment Assessment Inspect Environment and be aware
of
Possible Obstructions People in the Area Dangerous Slopes, Ledges or Holes Wet, Slippery or Rough Terrain Electrocution and Fire Hazards
Before Using
Avoid hazardous situations Always perform a pre operation
inspection Always perform function tests prior to
use Inspect the workplace Only use the machine as it was
intended
Electrical Hazard
PITs are not electrically insulated, and will not provide protection from contact with, or proximity to electrical current.
Electrical Hazards Always maintain safe distances from
electrical power lines and apparatus in accordance with applicable regulations
Allow for platform movement, electrical line sway or sag and beware of strong or gusty winds.
Keep away from equipment if in contact with energized power lines
Do not use the machine as a ground for welding
Tip-over Hazards
Equipment and materials shall not exceed the maximum platform capacity.
Ensure load is evenly distributed
Rough, Slippery, and/or Unstable Terrain
Use extreme care and slow speeds
Do not travel with the platform raised or extended
Operator must wear a safety belt or harness
Collision Hazards
Be aware of limited sight distance and blind spots when driving or operating a PIT.
Check the work area for overhead obstructions and other possible hazards.
Explosion and Fire Hazards
Do not start the engine if you smell or detect liquid petroleum gas (LPG), gasoline, diesel fuel or other explosive substances.
Do not refuel the machine with the engine running.
Refuel the machine and charge the battery only in an open, well-ventilated area away from sparks, or flames.
Do not operate the machine in hazardous locations or locations where potentially flammable or explosive gases or particles may be present.
Safety Rules Do not exceed load capacity Do not elevate load on a non-level
surface Do not lower Load unless the area
below is clear of personnel and obstructions
Check work area for overhead obstructions and other possible hazards
Weight Limits Do not load truck over capacity on
nameplate. Do not handle unstable loads.
Be very careful when handling long, high, or wide loads.
If applicable, do not exceed floor weight limits. If unsure of floor weight limits check with your supervisor
Review:Each shift, prior to starting your powered
industrialtruck, check the following:
Brakes Steering Oil Level Water Level
Tires Hydraulics Fuel level/battery change Instrument controls
Review
After starting the vehicle check:
Warning Lights Load Engaging Means
Hydraulic Control Operations
Service and parking brakes
Horn Gauges
Lift & Tilt Operations Headlights
In Review1. Know load limits.2. Conduct daily maintenance
checks. 3. Sound a warning. 4. Be aware of clearance
heights. 5. Know surface conditions. 6. Forks close to floor. 7. Body within running lines of
truck. 8. Forks tilted back when
loaded. 9. Only authorized personnel to
charge or change battery.10.THINK AND ACT SAFELY.
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