4.2What governs the use of PIT’s?Operation and training for PIT’s (forklifts) will, at a minimum, comply with 321 FW 1 and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards found in 29 CFR 1910.178.

4.3Are seat belts required?All PIT’s manufactured since 1993 have operator restraint systems (seat belts or other type) that must be worn at all times when operating PIT’s.

4.4Are there hazards associated with PIT’s?Hazards vary for different vehicle types, makes, and models.For example, a counterbalanced high lift rider truck is more likely to be involved in a falling load accident than a motorized hand truck because the rider truck can lift a load much higher than a hand truck.The methods or means of preventing accidents and protecting employees from injury also vary for different types of trucks.PIT’s are designed for operation in environments specifically classified with regard to nature of existing hazards. 

4.5What are the safety requirements for PIT’s?

A. High lift rider trucks will be fitted with an overhead guard manufactured in accordance with the American National Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks, Part II, ANSI B56.1-1969, unless operating conditions do not permit. 

B. Fork trucks must be equipped with a vertical load back rest extension manufactured in accordance with the American National Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks, if the type of load presents this hazard. 

4.6Are there restrictions on PIT operation?

A.Do not allow unauthorized personnel to ride on a PIT, and do not allow anyone to pass under raised loads or forks.

B.Personnel may work from a platform on a PIT only when the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.178(m) are met.Lifting personnel is only permitted when a truck is equipped with vertical only, or vertical and horizontal controls elevatable with the lifting carriage or forks for lifting personnel; the safety platform is firmly secured to the lifting carriage or forks for lifting personnel; means are provided whereby personnel on the platform can shut power off to the truck; and adequate protection from falling objects is provided. In addition, the PIT’s manufacturer must provide a letter stating that the lift platform being used is compatible with the PIT model. 

C.PIT operators will not operate any PIT in an incompatible environment per the equipment’s assigned designation; e.g., G-gasoline and D-diesel powered units must not be operated in certain areas such as confined spaces due to the hazard of unburned fuel exhausts, etc.

4.7What are the training requirements for PIT operators?PIT operators will receive training in accordance with 321 FW 1.

4.8Where can I find standards for battery removal, repair, and charging?Whenever a PIT’s battery needs removal, repair, or maintenance, the following OSHA standards apply, and employees must follow the required actions of each:

A.Powered Industrial Trucks, 29 CFR 1910.178(g).

B.Overhead and Gantry Cranes, 29 CFR 1910.179.

C.Personal Protective Equipment, 29 CFR 1910.132.

D.Medical Services and First Aid, 29 CFR 1910.151.

E.Hazardous Locations, 29 CFR 1910.307.

4.9Do battery charging areas need to meet specific safety requirements?

A.Charging areas must comply with 29 CFR 1910.178(g) and applicable requirements of the National Electric Code (including sections 503 and 505).In the event of a conflict between the regulations, the more stringent will apply.

B.The preferred lift trucks should be of the type that has self-contained “plug-in” recharging systems, and no contact is required with the battery.

C.Battery charging installations must be located in areas designated for that purpose.

D.Trucks will be properly positioned and brakes applied before attempting to charge batteries.

E.When charging batteries, keep the vent cap in place to avoid electrolyte spray. Make sure that vent caps are functioning. The battery (or compartment) cover(s) will be open to dissipate heat. 

F. Smoking and ignition sources are prohibited within the battery charging area.Designated battery charging areas will be posted with signs stating “DANGER - NO SMOKING OR IGNITION SOURCES.” 

G.Take precautions to prevent open flames, sparks, or electric arc in the battery charging area.

H.Keep tools and other metallic objects away from the top of uncovered batteries.

4.10Is safety/emergency equipment necessary?

A.Work areas where battery charging activity or battery-related corrosive materials (e.g., acids) are stored and used must have suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body within the immediate work area.We recommend that eyewash and shower facilities be of the permanent plumbed type connected to a potable water source.The unobstructed travel distance from the eyewash and shower system to the corrosive material usage area must not exceed 100 feet travel distance or 10 seconds travel time.

B.Provide an adequate means of employee first response to a fire situation (e.g., portable fire extinguisher), coupled with employee fire extinguisher training, proper maintenance, and monthly inspections per 29 CFR 1910.157.

4.11Do I need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE)? Employees involved in charging or maintaining PIT batteries, including adding acids, must wear adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect the skin and eyes from injury.Employees should review a battery charging Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) to determine the appropriate types of PPE to wear.In most cases, the PPE ensemble will consist of splash goggles and/or face shield, acid resistant apron, and acid resistant gloves.