Forklifts

OSHA regulations that cover forklifts also refer to several other types of vehicles:

• Tractors
• Platform lift trucks
• Motorized hand trucks
• Powered industrial trucks (PITs)
• Other specialized industrial trucks powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines

Forklifts often operate in environments where certain environmental accommodations are necessary. For example, environments containing flammable materials require that vehicles do not emit sparks or otherwise increase the risk of fire or explosion. Only approved industrial trucks can be used in hazardous locations. The characteristics of such locations and atmospheres include hazardous concentrations of various gases, vapors, dusts, flammable liquids, and easily ignitable materials. Your employer is responsible for the following elements related to forklift designations:

• Informing employees about the location and the atmospheric conditions under which a forklift or PIT will operate
• Making forklift designations clear to employees
• Ensuring that only appropriate forklifts operate under designated conditions

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