Introduction

Powered industrial trucks, 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. Over-the-road haulage trucks and earth-moving equipment that have been modified to include forklifts are not considered powered industrial trucks.

The Cal/OSHA standard provides information about how employers can take protective action in the operation of industrial equipment, including lift trucks and tractors, through measures such as:

• Compliance with the General Industry Safety Order (GISO) of California
• Compliance with OSHA standards for industrial equipment
• Compliance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards for industrial equipment
• Adhering to safety guidelines provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Adhering to requirements for maintenance, safeguards, and operational features for industrial equipment
• Implementing effective training plans
• Creating emergency action plans

By adhering to the Cal/OSHA regulations for industrial equipment, employers contribute to a safer work environment within the state of California.

To learn more about Industrial Equipment visit our Cal/OSHA Industrial Equipment, Lift Trucks and Tractors Online Training web page.