Manufacturing and warehousing companies almost always need to use large trucks to complete tasks. They are used for moving equipment, transporting water and other solutions, and much more.
There are many types of trucks that can be used including fork trucks, tractors, lift trucks, motorized hand trucks, etc. These powered industrial trucks are found in many different environments, and they can cause serious injuries or even fatalities if not used properly. This is exactly why OSHA puts out detailed instructions for how companies can help to improve safety around these industrial vehicles.
Most of the regulatory information for this equipment is found in OSHA 1910.178, which is titled Powered Industrial trucks. In this section you will find all the different types of safety requirements for these types of trucks. It does not apply to compressed air or other nonflammable compressed gas-powered trucks, so keep that in mind. This section is also not for farm vehicles or those that are primarily used for earth moving or over-the-road transportation.
Any company that acquires and uses the powered industrial trucks covered by these OSHA regulations is responsible for following the rules under this section. In most cases, the trucks will need to have an identifying mark that says that the truck is approved for use.
This set of regulations from OSHA is designed not just to ensure the trucks are kept in good condition, but also to ensure they are operated in a safe way. On top of that, it will also give important requirements for how people who work around these trucks must take care to ensure they are not injured. Taking the time to read and understand the OSHA 1910.178 is an important step in ensuring that your facility is as safe as possible for both the people and the equipment.
