April 30, 2014. There are many types of powered industrial vehicles subject to OSHA regulations. Each type presents different operating hazards. For example, a sit-down, counterbalanced high-lift rider truck is more likely than a motorized hand truck to be involved in a falling load accident because the sit-down rider truck can lift a load much higher than a hand truck. Workplace type and conditions are also factors in hazards commonly associated with powered industrial trucks. For example, retail establishments often face greater challenges than other worksites in maintaining pedestrian safety. Beyond that, many workers can also be injured when (1) lift trucks are inadvertently driven off loading docks; (2) lifts fall between docks and an unsecured trailer; (3) they are struck by a lift truck; or (4) they fall while on elevated pallets and tines. Key to a successful safety program is to make sure vehicle safety checks are performed on the equipment to be operated at the commencement of every shift. Making sure employee operators actually perform such safety checks is important. Certain technology exists in the workplace to automate and monitor the safety checklist requirements before the industrial vehicle can actually be operated by the employee.
To learn more about OSHA safety requirements concerning powered industrial vehicles contact the Goosmann Law Firm at info@goosmannlaw.com or call 712-226-4000.
Follow Bruce Smith on Twitter @BruceAtGLF!