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1) Do we have to inspect forklifts and other industrial powered trucks each day?
"Industrial trucks shall be examined before being placed in
service, and shall not be placed in service if the examination shows
any condition adversely affecting the safety of the vehicle. Such
examination shall be made at least daily.
Where industrial trucks are used on a round-the-clock basis,
they shall be examined after each shift. Defects when found shall be
immediately reported and corrected."
Thats what OSHA says in 1910.178(q)(7)
Photo credit.
2) So what does OSHA say to inspect? That is not so clear.
"Industrial trucks shall be kept in a clean condition, free of
lint, excess oil, and grease. Noncombustible agents should be used for
cleaning trucks. Low flash point (below 100° F) solvents shall not be
used. High flash point (at or above 100° F) solvents may be used.
Precautions regarding toxicity, ventilation, and fire hazard shall be
consonant with the agent or solvent used." 1910.178(q)(10)
"[i]f at any time a powered industrial truck is found to be in
need of repair, defective, or in any way unsafe," it needs to be
removed from service per 29 CFR 1910.178(p)(1)" Link to Overby interpetation letter."
I would look for seat belt and condition per the compliance directive CPL 02-01-028 IX. C.
More helpful than the standard!
Art Credit: http://www.stanssafetyposters.co.uk/posterimages/1211992349-forklift.jpg
3) Do you need to have a written record?
"Although the standard requires that the examination be
conducted, there is no OSHA requirement that the examination be
recorded in writing on a checklist such as the one you provided.
However, as an employer it is well within your rights to implement
additional safety practices that go beyond OSHA's requirements such as
the completion of your written checklist." Freed letter of interpretation
4) Where can I find the best information on this complicated topic?
Here.
5) Where can I get some training materials to use in my program?
Here is a free downloadable powerpoint program.
Stan's Safety Posters: http://tinyurl.com/ya4pxzp
FAQ: http://www.osha.gov/html/faq-pit.html
Editor's Note: CR4 would like to thank Milo for sharing this blog entry, which originally appeared here.
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Re: Five Questions for Forklift Inspection Compliance
