Fork Lift Truck

Introduction

The purpose of this document is to define the qualifications and training requirements of individuals that have a need to drive industrial fork lift trucks. No employee, student or contractor shall operate this equipment without first receiving proper training as outlined in this policy.

Scope

This policy shall cover all forklift operations involving college owned lift trucks. Vendors and contractors must also meet VOSHA regulations regarding training and licenses of their Power Industrial Vehicles.

Policy

All employees must have a valid College Forklift License before they can operate Industrial Forklift Trucks on their own. Employees in training may operate a forklift if under the direct supervision if a licensed operator. The licensed operator must be present and observing the employee in training.

Responsibilities

Supervisors are responsible to ensure that all their operators are properly trained and have a valid license authorizing them to operate a forklift truck; make sure that regular preventive maintenance is performed on the truck(s).

Operators shall insure that a safety inspection is done at the beginning of each shift prior to using the forklift truck. Each additional operator shall conduct a visual inspection to insure the vehicle’s safety (during the same shift).

The EHS Coordinator, or designee, will provide the training required for each operator and will assist the supervisor in implementing this policy.

Operators are required to follow this policy and successfully pass the required training. In addition all operators are required to operate their fork lift in a safe manner and complete a safety check prior to using the equipment.

Policy Requirements

• A valid state driver’s license is required. If an employee does not have a valid license, a review of his/her qualifications and need to operate must be done by the supervisor and EHS Coordinator.
• Successfully complete a classroom safety program.
• Successfully complete a practical driver’s test.
• Licensed operators who operate forklifts <5 times per year should practice periodically. Drivers shall have a refresher (Classroom) course at least every other year.
• Operator’s licenses will be reviewed annually to determine eligibility.
• An operators right to drive is conditional on following this policy and rules covered in training.
• Operators must operate their forklift in a safe manner by being aware of hazards around them.
• Seat belts, if provided, must be worn at all times.

Recordkeeping

Training records shall be kept by the EHS Coordinator. Daily inspection records shall be available at the location the forklift is being stored. Records shall be kept for a period of one month or until the next scheduled maintenance, whichever is longer. This will allow the maintenance supervisor to review all previous inspections since his last maintenance on the lift truck.

Training

Individuals wanting to drive a forklift truck must first successfully attend and pass a forklift safety workshop. A practical exam is also required prior to issuing a license. All license employees must attend an annual refresher.