Powered Industrial Trucks
OSHA promulgated an updated standard (29 CFR 1910.178) in 1999 regulating Powered Industrial Trucks (PITs) including forklifts, pallet jacks and any equipment that moves horizontally by other than human power. Site specific and equipment specific operator training and documentation are key requirements of the regulation.
The PIT training program at the University of Arizona includes the following components:
- Employees operating or supervising regulated equipment are required to complete a training program administered by either Risk Management & Safety (RM&S) or a qualified trainer within the employee's department. Trained employees are authorized to operate equipment for a period of three (3) years. Re-certification is required every three years. Departments are strongly encouraged to identify permanent staff that regularly operate this equipment for certification, and avoid operation by student employees or other temporary or intermittent employees.
- RM&S will provide necessary training materials.
- The training program includes:
- Video/overhead presentation and lecture followed by a short multiple choice test (20 questions).
- Review and discussion of test questions and correct responses.
- "Behind the Wheel" demonstration of safe and controlled operation of a specific piece(s) of equipment.
- The above is to take place at the typical work site. Examples of which would be: warehouse, equipment or storage yard, construction project or agricultural experiment station.
- Supervisory requirements:
- Every group, shop or department must designate a PIT Supervisor and at least one Alternate to be initially trained to conduct new employee and re-certification training. Coaching, mentoring and disciplinary action are all responsibilities of the PIT Supervisor. Horseplay while operating a PIT will not be tolerated.
- Upon completion of training, Risk Management & Safety will issue operator wallet cards indicating certification and expiration date. Individual departments will retain duplicate training records available for inspection by regulatory representatives.
Please contact the Department of Risk Management & Safety at 621-1790 to schedule PIT Training.
