Can A Strong OSHA Make Forklift Techs Safer?”

Not too long ago, a question came my way regarding what specific certifications the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates a mechanic or technician to possess in order to be deemed qualified to undertake the repair of forklift trucks. The answer from OSHA to this query might come as a surprise to some, as it is, believe it or not … none. That's correct, OSHA does not require any specific certifications for mechanics or technicians to be able to repair forklift trucks. In retrospect, I shouldn’t have been so surprised. In my view, OSHA has always seemed to favor padded and rounded corners when defining standards and regulations, with requirements likely being the rigid label.

Still, there are issues that OSHA considers important in relation to forklift technician requirements and we’ll list them here.

1. General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1)): Requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm. This clause can be applied to ensure that forklift mechanics receive adequate training to safely perform their duties.
2. Powered Industrial Trucks Standard (29 CFR 1910.178): While this standard primarily focuses on the safe operation of forklifts, it implies the need for properly maintained equipment. Mechanics must be knowledgeable and trained to perform maintenance tasks safely, ensuring that forklifts are in safe working condition.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (29 CFR 1910.132): This standard requires that employees, including mechanics, be provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and training on its proper use.
4. Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200): Mechanics need training on the hazards of chemicals they might encounter, such as battery acid or solvents, and how to safely manage them.
5. Lockout/Tagout (29 CFR 1910.147): This standard requires training on procedures for de-energizing and locking out equipment to prevent accidental startup during maintenance. Recently another technician was killed follow this link
6. Electrical Safety (29 CFR 1910 Subpart S): If mechanics work on the electrical systems of forklifts, they need training in electrical safety standards to prevent electrical shock and other hazards.

None of these seem to scream “you had better” reading them. You’d be surprised how tough they sound in a court room after an accident.

Training Recommendations for Forklift Mechanics:

1. Basic Forklift Operation and Safety: Even if they are not operating the forklifts, mechanics should understand the basic principles of forklift operation to diagnose issues effectively.
2. Mechanical and Electrical Systems: Training on the specific mechanical and electrical systems of the forklifts they will be servicing.
3. Safe Maintenance Practices: Procedures for safely lifting and supporting forklifts, proper tool use, and handling hazardous materials.
4. PPE Use and Maintenance: Instruction on selecting, using, and maintaining appropriate PPE for tasks they perform.
5. Emergency Procedures: Training in what to do in case of an accident, fire, or other emergencies related to forklift maintenance.
6. Lockout/Tagout Procedures: Detailed training on controlling hazardous energy during maintenance activities.

Despite OSHA not requiring specific certifications for mechanics or technicians to repair forklift trucks, it does emphasize several safety requirements. These include providing a workplace free from recognized hazards, ensuring mechanics are knowledgeable and trained, providing appropriate personal protective equipment, and training on handling chemical hazards and electrical safety standards. Additionally, it is recommended that forklift mechanics receive training in basic forklift operation, mechanical and electrical systems, safe maintenance practices, PPE use, emergency procedures, and lockout/tagout procedures.

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For more information, insights, or conversations regarding your forklift or material handling needs, you can visit our online contact form, call us at 763-425-9066, or email [email protected]. You can also find us on Twitter, @ToyotaEquipment or @KyleThill.

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Kyle Thill - Can A Strong OSHA Make Forklift Techs Safer?