Considerations when designing practical training for PITs
There are three basic requirements of powered industrial truck (PIT) training: formal instruction, practical training, and evaluation of the operator’s performance. Certifying an operator is more than just providing classroom lecture and a skills assessment. If your operator isn’t getting an appropriate level of practical training, you’re missing the point.
OSHA’s PIT standard (29 CFR 1910.178(l)(2)(ii)) requires that practical training include demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee. When determining what to include, consider the following:
- Specific safety precautions,
- Controls and instrumentation,
- Capacity, stability, and limitations,
- Operating area conditions,
- Maneuvering limitations, and
- Any additional equipment/attachments used.
Specific safety precautions
Safety should be at the forefront when certifying an operator. Operators need to be able to demonstrate a proper 3-point mount and dismount (one hand on the PIT/two feet on the ground, or two hands on the PIT/one foot on the ground). They should identify all blind spots associated with the PIT, including the area in front of the load and the rear of the vehicle. It’s important they can point out all pinch points, including the wheels, lift chains, fork/carriage movement, and battery compartment area. Operators should also demonstrate how to properly connect and disconnect the seatbelt, limitations while wearing the seatbelt, and the consequences of not using a seatbelt during operation. If the PIT utilizes fall protection, ensure the operator demonstrates how the safety harness is worn and how it is used during operation.
Controls and instrumentation
Operators must be familiar with all vehicle controls and instrumentation, including where they are located, what they do, and how they work. They should be able to demonstrate an understanding of all gauges, steering wheel, accelerator/brake, parking brake, directional control, raise and lower control, and tilt control. Of equal importance, an operator must know what to do if the PIT malfunctions and explain what they should be monitoring for, including warning indicators and battery charge indicator. Lastly, the operator should demonstrate the steps required to recharge/refuel the vehicle, which may include knowing how to locate and use an eyewash station.
Capacity, stability, and limitations
Not all PITs are created equal, which is why the operator must understand the specifics for the particular PIT they are operating. They must be able to locate the vehicle identification plate and demonstrate an understanding of the PIT’s capacity and recommended center of load. They should also be able to review any special operating instructions, warnings, or precautions pertaining to the particular PIT, as well as locate the operator’s manual with the same information.
Operating area conditions
Include the area conditions where the PIT will be operating in practical training. Depending on where the operator will practice, identify the different types of surfaces the PIT will drive over and explain how the vehicle will react if these conditions change. Operators must be able to identify approved areas of operations, as well as any hazards including intersections, loading docks, hazardous materials, trailers, and pedestrians.
Maneuvering limitations
The bulk of practical training should focus on the PIT’s maneuvering limitations, with and without a load. This will include proper demonstration of both forward and reverse movement, as well as proper braking. The operator should be able to appropriately turn in an open area, as well between racks and aisles. Care should be expressed when traveling through an intersection, as well as on a ramp or incline. Additional time will be needed for the operator to show proficiency with stacking and un-stacking a load, as well as lifting and/or turning while carrying a load.
Additional equipment/attachments
If the operator uses any additional equipment on the PIT, such as attachments, fork extenders, or working platform, the operator must demonstrate the appropriate knowledge. This will include knowing how to connect and disconnect the additional equipment, proper use, and how the weight of the additional equipment effects the overall load and mobility of the PIT.
Assuming the operator completed formal training, they must successfully practice, demonstrate, and understand each facet of the practical training program. Only then should they be allowed to progress to the evaluation stage of certification. Remember, there is no set time limit for how long the practical portion of training should take. It is up to the trainer to gauge competency of the operator while ensuring safe handling of the PIT.
Key to remember: Practical training should cover a wide variety of topics that pertain not only to the actual PIT, but to the area it will be operating in as well as any additional equipment it may utilize.