Powered Industrial Trucks (Forklift)
Powered industrial trucks, also known as forklifts, are used at UNC Charlotte to maintain and service facilities, as well as academic operations. However, these vehicles pose a significant risk for operators and pedestrians. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to comply with the powered industrial truck regulations.
What you need to know
The University has developed a Forklift program to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. The program requires the following:
- Forklift purchases and rental must be authorized by EHS
- Forklift operators must successfully complete training and receive specific authorization from their supervisor prior to operating a forklift
- Retraining is required at a minimum of every three (3) years
- Forklifts must be inspected by the operator prior to use and documented on the pre-use inspection form
- Periodic maintenance evaluations shall be performed by the manufacture or authorized representative
- If there is an accident involving a forklift, it must be promptly reported to the department supervisor, campus police, and EHS
Services
The Environmental Health and Safety Office offers the following services:
- Consultative regulatory review
- Purchase authorization
- Signage
- Limited equipment testing
- Inspections
- Training