RegSense® Tool

Forklift and Powered Industrial Truck Safety

Forklift Safety

Powered industrial trucks (PITs), commonly called forklifts or lift trucks, are used in many industries, primarily to move materials. They can also be used to raise, lower, or remove large objects or a number of smaller objects on pallets or in boxes, crates, or other containers.

Powered industrial trucks can either be ridden by the operator or controlled by a walking operator, though both types present different operating hazards. Industry and workplace conditions are also factors in hazards commonly associated with powered industrial trucks. For example, OSHA says that retail establishments often face greater challenges than other worksites in maintaining pedestrian safety.

OSHA’s Powered Industrial Truck standard applies to most types of material handling equipment that is powered for horizontal movement. This includes forklifts, order pickers, powered pallet jacks, yard jockeys, stand-up and narrow aisle lift trucks, to name a few. The standard doesn’t cover over-the-road haulage trucks and earth-moving equipment that has been modified to accept forks. In addition, the standard does not apply to scissor lifts or aerial lifts.

Whether you’re looking to administer required training or up your inspection efforts, the J. J. Keller® SAFETY MANAGEMENT SUITE delivers the resources needed to keep both operators and pedestrians safe around forklifts.