Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/826899
14 • JUNE 2017 • WORLD FENCE NEWS OSHA updates guidelines on forklift operator safety OSHA's Forklift Operator Train- ing regulation requires training and evaluation of industrial truck (fork- lift) operators before assignment to operate a forklift. Forklift operator training programs must include the following elements. Use these items for reference purposes only. For more complete details, vis- it www.osha.gov. This article was published previously in World Fence News, but this updated version in- cludes additional information. Safe operation The employer must ensure that every forklift operator is competent in the operation of the forklift as proven by successful completion of training. Training program implementation All operator training and evalua- tion must be conducted by individuals who have the knowledge, training, and experience to train and evaluate potential operators. Training includes a combination of formal instruction, demonstrations and practical exercises performed by the trainee, and an evaluation of the operators' performance. Practical ex- ercises must be performed under the direct supervision of trainers where the practical training does not endan- ger the trainee or other employees. Training program content Trainees must be initially trained in the following forklift-related and workplace-related topics: Truck-related • Operating instructions, warn- ings and precautions for vehicle. • Similarities and differences to automobiles. • Control and instrumentation lo- cation and use. • Engine or motor operation. • Steering and maneuvering. • Visibility. • Fork and attachment limitations and use. • Vehicle capacity. • Vehicle stability. • Vehicle inspection and mainte- nance. • Refueling or charging batteries. • Operating limitations. • Other operating instructions, precautions listed in the operators manual. Workplace-related • Surface conditions where fork- lift is used. • Load stacking, un-stacking and transport. • Pedestrian traffic. • Narrow aisle and restricted area operation. • Operation in hazardous loca- tions. • Ramp and sloped surfaces. • Unique or potentially hazardous conditions. • Operating the vehicle in closed environments. Evaluation and refresher training An evaluation of the performance of each forklift operator will be con- ducted by the employing company every three years. Refresher training will be conducted so employees retain the ability to safely operate a forklift. Retraining should also be used if there is reason to believe that unsafe acts have been committed, an accident or near-miss occurs, an evaluation continued on page 86 Check out some of the best web sites in the fence industry at World Fence News Online! www.worldfencenews.com