PHMSA asking for public comments on hazmat requirements

An overview of roles

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all owners and operators of UST systems to designate:

• One Class A operator and one Class B operator for each UST or groups of USTs, and
• Each qualifying person at the facility as a Class C operator.

Class A operators are responsible for operating and maintaining USTs in line with the regulations. A Class A operator generally manages the resources and personnel involved to ensure UST operations comply.

A successfully trained Class A operator:

• Makes informed decisions about compliance; and
• Determines whether the facility complies with operation, maintenance, and recordkeeping requirements.

Class B operators handle the day-to-day responsibilities for managing USTs (like conducting in-field operations).

A Class B operator with sufficient training implements applicable regulatory requirements in the field on typical UST system components or site-specific equipment.

Class C operators provide immediate responses to UST-related problems.

An adequately trained Class C operator takes the necessary response actions to emergencies or alarms caused by UST spills and releases.

Basic training requirements

EPA outlines the minimum training requirements for each operator type at 40 CFR Part 280 Subpart J. All classes of operators must be trained or pass a comparable examination. Class C operators have the additional option to receive training from a Class A or B operator at the facility.

A facility can designate an individual for multiple operator classes. Any person with multiple designations must complete the required training or comparable examination for all applicable classes.

Class A and Class B operators must be trained within 30 days of beginning UST duties. Class C operators have to be trained before starting their UST responsibilities.

Class A operators should understand the purpose, methods, and functions of:

• Spill and overfill prevention;
• Release detection;
• Corrosion protection;
• Emergency response;
• Product and equipment compatibility and demonstration;
• Financial responsibility;
• Notification and storage tank registration;
• Temporary and permanent closure;
• Related reporting, recordkeeping, testing, and inspections;
• Environmental and regulatory consequences of releases; and
• Training requirements for Class B and Class C operators.

Class B operators may be trained in either:

• General requirements for all compliance rules and the equipment commonly used at UST facilities, or
• Site-specific requirements that only cover the regulations and equipment applicable to the facility.

Additionally, Class B operators need to know the purpose, methods, and functions of:

• Operation and maintenance;
• Spill and overfill prevention;
• Release detection and related reporting;
• Corrosion protection;
• Emergency response;
• Product and equipment compatibility and demonstration;
• Reporting, recordkeeping, testing, and inspections;
• Environmental and regulatory consequences of releases; and
• Training requirements for Class C operators.

Class C operators must know how to respond with the correct actions to emergencies or alarms that are caused by spills or releases from UST operations, including notifying the authorities.

Common training questions

Consider these FAQs to help ensure your UST operator training programs comply.

How are operators evaluated?

Facilities must evaluate each operator via testing, a practical demonstration, or another approved approach.

When is retraining required?

If a UST system is found to be noncompliant, Class A and Class B operators at the facility must complete a training program or comparable examination that at least covers the areas out of compliance (unless exempt per 280.244).

Retraining should be completed within 30 days of the noncompliance determination. The training program or examination has to be developed or administered by a third party (i.e., an independent organization, the implementing agency, or a recognized authority).

How is training tracked?

Facilities are required to keep paper or electronic records that verify training and retraining for as long as the operators are designated. The records should contain at a minimum the information at 280.245(b).

What about state requirements?

It’s essential to check state UST regulations where your facilities operate. EPA has approved most states to implement the UST program. State requirements are at least as stringent as federal standards, and many state programs impose stricter rules.

Usually, operator training is obtained from third-party organizations that must be registered and approved by state environmental agencies to ensure the programs comply with federal and state requirements.

Key to remember: Training requirements for underground storage tank operators are based on their designated class: A, B, or C.

Key requirements for end users

1. Leak detection and repair

• Automatic leak detection systems (ALDs) are mandatory for systems with 1,500 pounds or more of refrigerant.
• Leaks must be repaired within 30 days or a retirement/retrofit plan must be submitted
• Leak rate thresholds:
  • Industrial process refrigeration: 30%
  • Commercial refrigeration: 20%
  • Transport & comfort cooling: 10%

2. Refrigerant reclamation

• Repairs must use reclaimed refrigerants in supermarket systems, refrigerated transport, and commercial ice makers
• Reclaimed HFCs must contain no more than 15% virgin HFCs and be properly labeled

3. Recordkeeping and reporting

• Businesses must maintain detailed logs of:
  • Refrigerant purchases and usage
  • Leak events and repairs
  • Equipment servicing and disposal
• Records must be available for EPA audits at any time.

4. Disposal and recycling

• HFCs must be recovered from disposable cylinders before disposal
• Fire suppression systems must be recycled prior to disposal, and technician training is required

Sector-specific impacts

Grocery retailers

• Must retrofit or replace systems using restricted HFCs like R-404A or R-22
• Natural refrigerants (CO₂, ammonia) are encouraged but require new equipment and trained technicians
• Legacy systems may become costly to maintain due to refrigerant scarcity

Refrigerated transport

• Subject to leak repair thresholds and reclamation rules
• Must track refrigerant use across fleets and ensure timely repairs

Repair shops

• Must use reclaimed refrigerants for servicing regulated systems
• Required to follow EPA labeling and documentation standards

All end users: what you must do now

• Inventory your equipment: Identify all systems with refrigerants over 15 lbs and GWP greater than 53
• Install ALDs: For large systems, ensure real-time leak monitoring is in place
• Train staff: Ensure technicians understand new servicing, reporting, and disposal rules
• Upgrade Recordkeeping: Use digital tools to automate tracking and reporting

Looking ahead: state-level rules may be stricter

States like California, Washington, and New York are implementing stricter refrigerant rules that may exceed federal AIM Act standards. Businesses operating across state lines must monitor local regulations and prepare for additional reporting and inspections.

Key to remember: If your business uses refrigerants, the AIM Act likely applies to you. Start preparing now to avoid penalties and ensure compliance by 2026.

Long-term actions

The DOT is working on other rule changes that have an uncertain future. This includes:

• Removal of the rules governing drivers’ employment applications.
• Updates to the “tank vehicle” definition to clarify the need for a tank endorsement.
• Rules requiring vehicles to be equipped with an electronic ID for enforcement purposes.
• A proposal to add new fees for companies that are self-insured.
• Changes to the rules for enforcement proceedings.

Key to remember: The DOT is planning numerous rule changes for late 2025 and beyond. Stay tuned for rulemaking actions from the FMCSA and other DOT agencies, and weigh in when public comments are sought.

The requirement

Under 49 CFR 396.17, every CMV — including trucks, tractors, and trailers of any size — must undergo a comprehensive inspection at least once every 12 months. This is tied to the “commercial motor vehicle” definition in 49 CFR 390.5T, which includes vehicles or vehicle combinations over 10,000 pounds and operating in interstate commerce, even if a commercial driver’s license is not required.

The inspection must cover all components listed in Appendix A to Part 396, and proof of passing the inspection must be carried on or with the vehicle at all times.

Acceptable documentation

How does a driver prove the vehicle(s) passed the inspection? There are two ways:

1. Carry a copy of the full inspection report described in 396.21; or
2. Point to a sticker or decal on the vehicle, showing:
   1. The date of inspection (not the due date);
   2. The name and address where the full inspection report is located (so an inspector knows where to find it);
   3. A unique vehicle ID (VIN, plate number, fleet number, etc.), unless the vehicle is clearly marked with a unique ID (cross-referenced on the long inspection form); and
   4. A certification that the vehicle passed inspection under 396.17.

The sticker may be located anywhere, as long as the driver knows where it is and it’s not overly difficult for the inspector to find it.

Violations typically occur due to:

• Missing, obscured, or expired inspection documentation on the vehicle;
• Failure to inspect trailers, converter dollies, or other vehicles that form part of a CMV;
• Misunderstanding the required inspection interval (or simply forgetting to do the inspection on time); or
• Assuming that some other type of inspection qualifies.

During an audit, if the investigator finds that 10 percent or more of your fleet’s annual inspections were not done as required, it’s considered a “critical” violation that could harm your safety rating. In addition, a J. J. Keller analysis found that the average fine that motor carriers paid for this violation was $5,713 (over the period from 2021-2024).

Liability is another key concern. A crash involving a CMV that wasn’t inspected in the past year could call your safety practices into question and result in a sizable verdict in the plaintiff’s favor.

How to stay compliant

Motor carriers must take proactive steps to avoid these costly violations: • Ensure annual inspections are performed on time. Schedule inspections before the 365-day mark from the last inspection.

• Inspect all vehicles. From lightweight one-axle pieces of equipment to flatbeds, shuttle buses, dry vans, and Class 8 tractors, be sure to include all vehicles in the inspection program, not just power units.
• Use qualified inspectors. Inspectors must meet the qualifications outlined in 396.19 — even if they work for a third party — and you must be prepared to provide proof of those qualifications to an auditor. An individual may be qualified by having at least one year of experience, but you need to be sure it’s documented.
• Maintain proper documentation. Ensure drivers know where the sticker or report for each vehicle is located and that it’s legible and current. Also be sure to keep inspection reports for 14 months.
• Ensure your state inspection program is “equivalent.” If your vehicles are inspected annually under a state-mandated program, make sure the program is on the federal list of inspection programs that are considered “equivalent” to the inspection required under 396.17. If not, you’ll need to do another inspection before operating across state lines.
• Audit your fleet regularly. Conduct internal audits to verify inspection dates and documentation. Identify and correct gaps in your compliance program.
• Train drivers and maintenance staff. Educate drivers on the importance of carrying proof of inspection, and on the importance of checking for that proof during their pre-trip inspections. Train maintenance personnel on inspection standards and documentation requirements.

With violations climbing, motor carriers must treat 396.17 compliance as a top priority. The cost of noncompliance isn’t just financial — it can lead to out-of-service orders, fines, failed audits, liability, and reputational damage.

Key to remember: Stay ahead of the curve when it comes to annual inspections. Review your inspection protocols and ensure every vehicle in your fleet is documented, inspected, and compliant.

The number tell the story

Out of 4,629 inspections, there were 1,169 hazmat -related violations. Here’s the shocker, more than half of those (598 violations to be exact (51%)) were serious enough to place vehicles OOS. That means those vehicles couldn’t continue down the road until the issues were fixed.

So, what kind of issues were inspectors finding? Here’s a quick look at some of the most common issues found in the U.S.:

• Placarding violations: 192 total (non-bulk and bulk)
• Package marking issues: 126 total
• Missing emergency response information: 70 violations
• No PHMSA registration: 35 violations
• Leaking packages: 18 violations
• Undeclared hazmat: 16 violations

What gets you put out of service?

Not all hazmat violations will get you placed OOS. According to the CVSA OOS criteria, here are some of the violations that can get you sidelined:

• Missing hazmat shipping papers
• Missing 50% or more of required markings or placards
• Displaying incorrect placards for the hazard
• Having unauthorized, damaged, or leaking packaging
• Improper or no cargo securement
• Transporting non-compatible hazmat

What's being hauled?

During the blitz, inspectors looked at 7,294 packages across all nine hazmat classes. The most common materials found included:

• Class 3 (Flammable liquids) – 2,478 packages
• Class 2 (Gases) – 1,239 packages
• Class 8 (Corrosives) – 997 packages

What you can do

There are some actions you can take to reduce or eliminate your chances of receiving an OOS violation. To stay compliant and safe:

• Double-check your placards, labels, and markings.
• Make sure you have your hazmat shipping papers.
• Inspect your cargo for leaks or damage before hitting the road.
• Stay up to date on hazmat training.

Key to remember: The CVSA’s Road Blitz isn’t just about enforcement, it’s about safety. These inspections help keep dangerous materials from causing harm on the road.

How equipment failure turns into a hazard:

Neglected maintenance can create serious risks, including:

• Mechanical failures – unmaintained machinery can suddenly seize, break apart, or eject parts.
• Electrical hazards – frayed cords, worn insulation, or faulty breakers can cause shocks or fires.
• Chemical releases – worn seals, cracked tanks, or failed valves can ultimately lead to hazardous spills.
• Ergonomic strain – poorly calibrated or damaged equipment can force employees into awkward or unsafe positions.

These risks aren’t just hypothetical; OSHA frequently cites employers after incidents where the root cause was poor or non-existent preventative maintenance.

Key elements of a safety driven PM program:

1. Risk based scheduling – prioritize maintenance on equipment with the greatest safety risks (ex. forklifts, overhead cranes, pressure vessels, and electrical systems). Maintain a critical equipment registry that highlights assets where failure could lead to injury or regulatory violations.
2. Standardized procedures – document step-by-step PM tasks with a strong emphasis on safety. For example, include lockout/tagout steps, PPE requirements, and confined space entry procedures. Train employees to follow SOPs consistently to reduce human error.
3. Qualified personnel – preventative maintenance is only as good as the people performing it. Ensure technicians are trained not only on the task, but on the safety hazards of the equipment.
4. Integrated safety checks – incorporate safety specific items in PM inspections such as checking emergency stops, guarding, grounding, or ventilation performance.
5. Document everything – use digital tracking to log inspections, repairs, and part replacement. This protects employers during audits and helps spot recurring issues.
6. Operator involvement and pre-use checks – empower front-line employees to perform daily pre-use inspections such as forklift inspections and machine guarding verification. Create simple reporting tools to flag issues before they escalate.
7. Corrective action and follow-up – establish a system for tracking identified hazards until resolution through work orders or corrective action logs. Communicate completion of corrective actions to affected employees.

A well-run preventative maintenance program is, at its heart, a safety program. While cost savings and productivity gains are valuable, the greatest benefit is protecting workers from harm’s way. By preventing equipment failures, ensuring safety systems function correctly, and reinforcing a culture of care, PM programs create a safer workplace where employees can perform their jobs with confidence. Simply put, machines can be replaced – people cannot. That’s why preventative maintenance isn’t just smart business, it’s a commitment to worker safety.

Keys to remember: A safety driven PM program isn’t just about keeping machines running. It’s about making sure every inspection, service, and repair is performed with worker safety in mind.

Top violations

One of the most common violations involves insufficient tie-downs. Drivers often misjudge the number or strength of tie-downs required for a particular load. Regulations require that cargo be secured to prevent movement in every direction — forward, backward, sideways, and vertically. Failure to meet these standards can result in citations and immediate out-of-service orders.

Another frequent issue is the use of damaged or worn securement equipment. Inspectors regularly flag:

• Frayed straps,
• Damaged chains, and
• Broken load binders.

These defects not only violate FMCSA regulations but also pose serious safety risks. A single failed strap on a flatbed hauling heavy machinery can lead to disastrous consequences.

Improper blocking and bracing is also a recurring problem, especially in enclosed trailers. Freight that is not adequately stabilized can shift during transit.

This can lead to:

• Trailer damage,
• Compromised vehicle control, or
• Injury during unloading.

Preventive measures

To avoid these violations, fleets must prioritize driver training and thorough inspection protocols. Pretrip inspections should include a detailed check of all securement devices to ensure they meet regulatory standards and are free of defects. Drivers should be trained not only on how to secure loads but also on  assessing risk based on cargo type, weight, and distribution.

Preventive measures go beyond routine checks. They require a proactive mindset and a system that catches issues before they become violations. Fleets should:

• Implement layered inspection processes, including post-load audits and mid-route securement checks, especially for long hauls or high-risk cargo.
• Standardize securement procedures across the fleet to ensure consistency.
• Invest in modern securement technology such as tension indicators, smart straps, and automated alerts to reduce human error.

These tools help drivers verify that loads remain secure throughout the journey, especially during long hauls or in adverse weather conditions.

Key to remember: By staying informed, maintaining equipment, and fostering a safety-first culture, carriers can reduce violations, protect their Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) scores, and ensure every load arrives safely and securely.

HM/DG Road Blitz goals

The goals of CVSA’s unannounced annual HM/DG Road Blitz include:

• Inspecting vehicles transporting HM/DG for regulatory compliance and identifying compliance violations.
• Removing vehicles with HM/DG out-of-service violations.
• Attaching a decal to vehicles/vehicle combinations without critical inspection violations.
• Recognizing compliant drivers, carriers, shippers, etc.
• Highlighting the importance of the programs associated with safe HM/DG transportation, as well as the specially trained inspectors who focus on HM/DG safety and compliance.

Road Blitz results

During the five-day inspection event, inspectors discovered:

• 16 undeclared packages in the U.S.,
• 35 U.S. drivers with missing copies of their Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) registration,
• 70 U.S. drivers without emergency response information in the vehicle,
• 32 Canadian emergency response assistance violations,
• 61 Canadian TDG training certification violations (64 percent of which placed drivers out of service), and
• Out-of-service violations in both countries for loading and securement and package integrity (leaking packages).

What makes HM/DG different

Transporting HM/DG requires drivers to undergo serious training thanks to heightened compliance requirements that keep carriers, drivers, the environment, and the public safe. Inspectors look for leaking materials or unsecured cargo, as well as verify shipping paper, packing and loading, labeling, placarding, and marking compliance.

In the U.S., HM refers to any “substance or material that poses an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce.” HM is also designated as hazardous under Section 5103 of Federal Hazardous Material Transportation Law. In the U.S., carriers and drivers involved with transporting HM comply with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR), while those in Canada follow the Transportation of Dangerous Good (TDG) Regulations.

There are nine classes of recognized HM/DG, each placed into categories based on the chemical and physical properties of the material, along with the associated risks. There were 7,294 Class 1-9 packages inspected during the event.

Find the full report with more detailed information at https://cvsa.org/news/2025-hm-dg-road-blitz-results/.

Missing opioids and a dazed nurse

In this case, hospital staff members noticed opioids missing from a controlled room in the intensive care unit. Two nurses reported to a supervisor that medication had been obtained under their credentials, but that they had not taken it out.

The supervisor questioned staff members about the missing drugs. During the investigation, coworkers reported that a nurse with access to the room looked tired, dazed, and out of sorts. It was found that she had accessed the room containing the medication around the time it went missing.

Supervisors asked the nurse to take a drug test and a fitness for duty exam. The test came back positive, but the nurse said the positive result was due to medication she had taken the previous evening for a shingles flare-up.

As the investigation continued, the nurse asked to go home because she was unable to complete the charts she was working on. Before she left, a supervisor told her she was suspended until further notice.

The nurse was later terminated, but the day before her termination, she filed for Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave. The certification form contained only vague information, however.

Claims don’t hold up

The nurse’s numerous claims against the hospital included:

National origin discrimination: The nurse, who described herself as Salvadorian, claimed the hospital discriminated against her and violated her rights under Title VII by not subjecting others on duty to an investigation or fitness for duty exam. The court found, however, that all employees were asked about the missing medication, and she was the only one acting abnormally. Her behavior was the reason for the fitness for duty exam, not her national origin.

She also said that her coworkers made anti-Hispanic comments that impacted the hospital’s investigation. The court found, however, that her termination was based on the results of the investigation, not coworker comments.

The court also noted that the nursing supervisor quickly responded after learning of the missing medication. In addition, because the nurse said she had taken a prescription medication that could have caused a positive drug test, the test was treated as negative.

Disability discrimination: The nurse argued that she was considered disabled and protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) because of shingles that caused severe pain. The court found, however, that she didn’t explain how she was limited by this disability and failed to provide a record of impairment.

Family and Medical Leave Act: The nurse’s sparse FMLA certification didn’t show she was entitled to leave, the court found. Her request was processed normally, and she didn’t have enough evidence to show that the hospital fired her in retaliation for filing an FMLA claim.

State anti-discrimination laws: The employee also sued under the Illinois Human Rights Act, but her claims failed because she lost the federal Title VII and ADA claims.

Imperfections don’t derail the case

During its investigation, the hospital made some mistakes. The nurse was allowed to drive home, although hospital policy called for her to be sent home in a cab or go home with a family member. The nurse was also asked to finish her charting work, which was a policy violation.

These mistakes didn’t hurt the employer’s case, however. The court found that the hospital didn’t violate any laws when terminating the employee.

Key to remember: When drug use is suspected, quick action, a thorough investigation, and documentation can help an employer build a solid case that provides a valid reason for actions taken against an employee.

United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, Lohmeier v. Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, August 14, 2025

Steps to take when an EAD is revoked

When an employer learns that a worker’s EAD has been revoked, the employer must reverify the employee’s eligibility to work in the United States. To do this:

• Fill out Supplement B of the Form I-9.
• Allow the employee to provide a document from List A or List C to show eligibility to work in the United States.

An employee whose EAD has been revoked may have employment authorization based on another status or provision of law. They can present acceptable Form I-9 documentation to demonstrate that they can continue to work in the United States.

An employer may not continue to employ an individual who does not provide proof of current employment authorization, however.

An employer should contact their legal counsel if they have questions about worker immigration status, and the employee can consult an immigration attorney to see if there is a way to have their work authorization extended. An individual cannot be legally employed until they have the proper documents to prove current employment authorization.

Eligibility remains intact

Once an employee meets these three criteria for a particular reason, their eligibility lasts for the duration of the entire 12-month leave year period. Employers don’t need to reassess an employee’s eligibility during that timeframe for that leave reason.

If, however, that same employee needed leave for a different qualifying reason, then employers would reassess whether the employee met the eligibility criteria.

This can result in employees being eligible to take FMLA leave for one qualifying reason, but not another.

FMLA denials don’t remain intact

On the flip side, once employers deny an employee’s leave because the employee didn’t meet the eligibility criteria, employers must reassess that denial once the employee meets the eligibility criteria. The denial doesn’t remain intact for the duration of the 12-month leave year.

If, after not meeting the eligibility criteria, an employee does meet it, regardless of when that happens in the 12-month leave year period, the employee will be eligible to take FMLA leave for a qualifying reason. Employers would need to designate any leave taken after an employee meets the eligibility criteria as FMLA leave.

An employee might, for example, be on non-FMLA leave when they meet the 12-month eligibility criterion. In that situation, any leave taken after the employee meets the 12-months worked threshold would be FMLA leave. The same would be true for the 1,250-hours worked threshold.

Rolling backward challenges

For employers that use the rolling backward method to calculate the 12-month leave year period, an employee’s eligibility for leave for a particular reason would continue for 12 months from the date of the first FMLA absence for the condition.

When a new leave year begins

Regardless of which method employers use to calculate the 12-month leave year, they would recalculate an employee’s eligibility when the employee asked for leave for the first time in a new 12-month leave year.

Key to remember: If employers deny FMLA leave because employees didn’t meet the eligibility criteria, they have to reassess eligibility once employees meet the criteria; the denial doesn’t automatically remain intact. Eligibility, once met, however, doesn’t change for a particular leave reason.

Step 1: Breathe

It starts with pausing and realizing that you can’t do it all, Dickens said.

“The first thing I want you to do is breathe!” she said. “You cannot handle all this alone.”

Step 2: Identify what you’re good at

HR professionals should focus on their strengths and the changes they are best able to address. For other issues, they should leverage the expertise of those in their network.

“Don’t give yourself whiplash” by looking at all the changes taking place every day, she said.

Instead, focus on two or three things that fall into your wheelhouse.

“Anything outside that box, find someone else who is an expert,” she said.

Step 3: Look for partners

Those experts might be inside or outside an organization. Within their own company, HR professionals can work with their company’s legal counsel, for example, to understand the impact of legislative and regulatory changes and steps that need to be taken.

“You can lead in saying what the strategy is and let people do the things that they are good at,” Dickens noted. “You don’t necessarily have to lead everything by doing the work and executing on the work.”

If a company does not have an outside counsel, she advises HR professionals to champion for one to be added to the budget. She also suggests that HR professionals get to know the people in their company who specialize in government affairs.

“Take them out to lunch, go walk, have some or coffee,” she said. “Start talking to them about what your concerns are so that gets on their radar.”

When hiring for HR roles, she suggests looking for individuals who have expertise in areas that are not current strengths for team members. “Every HR generalist has an area they are really, really good at,” she noted.

While these strategies can’t stem the tide of change, they can make it a little easier to manage. As Dickens said, “These are practical things that can help you make your way through this.”

Key to remember: HR professionals and others with HR duties shouldn’t work in isolation when dealing with change. They should pause, consider what they are best at, and tap into their network for support.

Complimentary for the cause

The Machine Guarding under 29 CFR 1910 Subpart O and the Control of Hazardous Energy Sources (LOTO) standard at 29 CFR 1910.147 serve a very similar purpose of protecting workers. Fundamentally, they complement one another:

• Machine Guarding is a first line of defense, designed to prevent access to dangerous parts during normal operation (e.g., rollers, blades, gears, pinch points). Guards, barriers, and safety devices physically separate workers from moving parts and machine components.
• LOTO is a secondary control, used during servicing or maintenance (not normal operations) when guards may be removed or bypassed. It ensures that machines energy is isolated to prevent startup until work is complete.

Together, these standards form a layered safety approach with guards protecting workers during operations, and LOTO protecting them during maintenance. Since guards may be removed during servicing, the risk of injury is increased, which is where LOTO takes over to control energy and unexpected startup. Without proper LOTO, even a well-guarded machine can become deadly during maintenance or servicing tasks.

While both standards are intended to prevent injuries, they approach worker safety from different angles which can sometimes create confusion or conflict in implementation. The life of the young sanitation worker could have been saved if guards had been in place to prevent the fall into the grinder and proper LOTO had been performed to prevent unexpected start-up of the machine.

Combating the confusion

Both machine guarding and LOTO are essential safeguards designed to protect workers from machinery and energy source hazards, yet they operate under different OSHA standards with distinct expectations and applications. Additionally, confusion is created when dealing with routine vs. non-routine tasks. OSHA allows some minor servicing tasks to be performed without full LOTO if they are routine, repetitive, and integral to production, and if effective machine guarding is in place. As with the incident shared above, how would the employee have determined if cleaning the meat grinder was routine or non-routine — what qualifies as “routine?”

Routine operations are regular, recurring daily tasks with specific procedures. These may include inspections or daily adjustments to machines or equipment (e.g., frequent die changes or clearing regular jams. Non-routine operations are infrequent, unexpected, or new activities with unique risks. These often include emergency maintenance or process start-ups. Cleaning the meat grinder would likely be a routine activity; however, with the unique layout or size of the machinery, guarding alone was not sufficient.

Some maintenance does require removing guards, which exposes workers to hazards. If LOTO procedures aren’t strictly followed, there is a gap in protection. This can often result in the underuse LOTO while relying too heavily on guards when both should be used for full protection.

The confusion between machine guarding and LOTO requirements can be cleared up by:

• Clearly defining tasks that require machine guarding versus those covered by LOTO, and when both may be needed;
• Performing risk assessments to evaluate whether guarding alone is sufficient for specific machines or tasks;
• Documenting and communicating any exceptions to LOTO, including justification and alternative protective measures;
• Auditing programs and procedures regularly to identify and remediate gaps; and
• Training all supervisors and workers of the requirements in both standards.

Blurred by technology

Modern machines often include advanced guarding systems like light curtains or presence-sensing devices. While these tech marvels enhance safety, they can blur the lines between guarding and energy control. From an OSHA lens, these systems do not replace LOTO during servicing, which can add to the confusion for many trying to interpret compliance requirements. It’s imperative to understand that technology often helps protect workers from getting injured by machines, but they aren’t intended to necessarily control energy sources.

Clarity through training

Once employers have sifted through the collision confusion, workers must also be brought up to speed. Often, they have been trained in one standard but not the other, leading to inconsistent application. For example, operators may understand guarding but not LOTO procedures, especially in situations where operations and maintenance are handled by separate personnel.

Keys to remember: LOTO and machine guarding are not just essential, they are complimentary. When used together and correctly, they provide multi-layered approach to protection against serious injuries and fatalities.

Other safety tips

Tornado safety involves three phases: Preparing in advance, Staying safe during the storm, and Staying safe after the storm.

Employees should prepare a plan and an emergency kit, monitor weather conditions during thunderstorms, and know the best places to shelter wherever they work.

Employers should prepare a business continuity plan for dealing with the aftermath, from cleaning up the site to resuming business operations.

During a tornado warning, employees should remain in a shelter until given an all-clear signal. At a fixed worksite, this may come from an employer announcement. At other locations, employees may need to monitor conditions on their phone or radio.

After the storm, employees may need a way to communicate if they are trapped or injured. They should also watch for hazards such as downed power lines, gas leaks, building damage, or debris.

Key to remember: Tornadoes can happen at any time, but Spring is most active, and employers should prepare to protect workers.

The intent of the standard

OSHA’s powered industrial truck (PIT) standard (29 CFR 1910.178) is intended to ensure the safe use of fork trucks, tractors, platform lift trucks, motorized hand trucks, and other specialized industrial trucks powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines. The standard outlines requirements for operational permits and certification.

And, though not specified in the standard itself, PIT operators must be at least 18 years old per federal child labor regulations.

License and certification Q&A

The OSHA PIT standard clearly defines requirements for training and certification. However, some licensing and certification information isn’t as clear. Here are some clarifications:

Q: Who can train, evaluate, and certify PIT operators?

A: OSHA requires in 1910.178(l)(2)(iii) that, “All operator training and evaluation shall be conducted by persons who have the knowledge, training, and experience to train powered industrial truck operators and evaluate their competence.” The OSHA standard doesn’t further define this requirement or set any specific or additional certifications.

Q: Does OSHA require PIT operators to have a valid driver's license?

A: Federal OSHA has no requirement that a forklift operator has a valid motor vehicle driver's license. Some states are more stringent, so check your local and state requirements to confirm.

Q: Does OSHA have regulations that impact an employee’s ability to operate PITs if they’ve received a DUI or suspended license?

A: Because OSHA doesn't require a valid motor vehicle driver's license, the status of that license doesn’t impact PIT operator permitting. Individual states or the employer may have policies that dictate otherwise.

Q: Are PIT drivers required to have their license on them when they are working?

A: Federal OSHA doesn’t require PIT operators to have a license or permit. However, some states such as Michigan do require this. Typically, in states that require a permit or license, the license must be “readily available.” Companies have the option to require the permit or license be carried with the operator.

Q: Are operators required to be trained on each manufacture of PIT model?

A: A June 15, 1999, OSHA letter of interpretation (LOI) clarifies that operators are to be trained and evaluated in the safe operation for the type of truck they’ll be assigned. Operators wouldn’t need additional training for same truck types but would need additional training when truck- or workplace-related training topics are different.

Q: Do PIT operators need to be recertified if they move from one state to another with the same company?

A: In an LOI dated October 1, 1999, OSHA states, "As long as the employer has a reasonable basis to believe that the third-party trainer is qualified and has a program that meets the requirements of the standard, it can rely on that trainer to conduct the training and evaluation of employees and can certify that these employees have been trained. However, the employer may need to provide additional training on site-specific or truck-specific matters." This shouldn’t require retraining for the same type of forklift as already certified; however, workplace conditions or other factors of the new work location may require training for forklift operation in the other state(s).

Operator Impairments

In addition to being properly trained and evaluated, OSHA expects employers to ensure physical capabilities. OSHA references the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standard B56.1-1969. Section 6 clarifies that, “Operators of powered industrial trucks shall be physically qualified. An examination should be made on an annual basis and include such things as field of vision, hearing, depth perception, and reaction timing."

Employers should consider OSHA PIT regulations and the General Duty Clause, ANSI standards, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements when evaluating physical qualifications. In short, if a worker demonstrates the visual, auditory, and mental ability to safely operate PITs, he or she is permitted to operate them.

Keys to Remember

OSHA requires employers ensure the safe use of forklifts and other powered industrial vehicles. Employers must ensure operators have the knowledge, skills, and physical ability to safely operate PITs.

Key OSHA requirements

First, according to OSHA standard 1910.146(d)(9), employers must develop and implement procedures for the following:

• Summoning rescue and emergency services.
• Rescuing entrants from permit spaces.
• Providing necessary emergency services to rescued employees.
• Preventing unauthorized personnel from attempting a rescue.

This is where employers need to put on their critical thinking caps. Ask yourself: Do we have procedures for summoning rescue and emergency services? How do we rescue entrants from our permit spaces?

These conversations need to be had between the key players in your confined space operations. Supervisors, entrants, attendants, and safety personnel should develop and implement these procedures together.

Next, OSHA standard 1910.146(f) requires the entry permits to identify the following:

• The rescue and emergency services that can be summoned and the means (such as the equipment to use and the numbers to call) for summoning those services.
• The equipment, such as personal protective equipment, testing equipment, communications equipment, alarm systems, and rescue equipment, to be provided for entry and rescue.

To facilitate non-entry rescue, retrieval systems or methods shall be used whenever an authorized entrant enters a permit space unless the retrieval equipment would increase the overall risk of entry or would not contribute to the rescue of the entrant.

Next, OSHA standard 1910.146(i) lists the attendants' duties. And in terms of rescue, those duties include:

• Summoning rescue and other emergency services as soon as the attendant determines that authorized entrants may need assistance to escape from permit space hazards.
• When the employer's permit entry program allows attendant entry for rescue, attendants may enter a permit space to attempt a rescue if they have been trained and equipped for rescue operations as required by paragraph (k)(1) of this section and if they have been relieved by another attendant.
• Performing non-entry rescues as specified by the employer's rescue procedure.

And finally, OSHA standard 1910.146(k) offers guidance on designating rescue and emergency services.

Essentially, employers must evaluate a prospective rescuer's ability to respond to a rescue summons in a timely manner. They must take the specific hazards involved into consideration when determining what a “timely” rescue means.

Selecting your rescue team

Employers have two options for designating rescue and emergency services:

1. Select an “in-house” team of employees to be designated for rescue operations.
2. Work with an outside contractor or emergency response team.

If the employer chooses to use an in-house team of employees, the employer must:

• Train affected employees to perform assigned rescue duties.
• Ensure that such employees successfully complete the training required to establish proficiency as an authorized entrant.
• Train affected employees in basic first-aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The employer shall ensure that at least one member of the rescue team or service holding a current certification in first aid and CPR is available.
• Ensure that affected employees practice making permit space rescues at least once every 12 months by means of simulated rescue operations in which they remove dummies, manikins, or actual persons from the actual permit spaces or from representative permit spaces.

Check out “Part 2” of this series, Confined Space Rescue (Part 2): Partnering with outside resources.

Key to remember: Employers must develop and implement rescue procedures for all permit-required confined space entry operations. Are you prepared?

#1 Start here

First, OSHA requires that all operators must be trained prior to being allowed to operate forklifts. And the same thing goes for pallet trucks, order pickers, and stand-up units…. Any powered type of material handling equipment requires training.

But what does training entail? Well, the OSHA regulations are very specific. All operators must receive a combination of training. Training must consist of formal training, which is a lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, video tape, written material, and so on.

They must also receive practical training, which means demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee.

And the third component is that operators must receive a performance evaluation. So, they must operate the equipment and be observed and evaluated before being considered trained per the OSHA standard.

Usually, you’ll introduce the concepts during the classroom portion of training, the more informational aspects, such as the OSHA requirements. Then you’ll use the practical part of training to familiarize trainees with controls, talk about load handling, and so on. With the practical part, it’s usually best to ramp up the training, meaning start with simple skills and then build on those.

#2 Train on these topics

Aside from requirements for how to do the training, OSHA gives us a detailed list of topics to cover during the training.

The main categories are truck-related and workplace-related topics. And remember that OSHA does require you to include information on OSHA’s forklift standard as part of the training program. This requirement can be easy to overlook, but a good way to approach it is in the classroom portion of the program.

Keep in mind that if a topic doesn’t apply to your trucks or workplace, you don’t have to train on it. For example, if you don’t have any ramps or hazardous (classified) locations in your facility, your forklift operators don’t need training on these topics.

Truck-related topics include the following:

• Operation instruction, warnings
• Differences between forklift and automobile
• Controls, instrumentation
• Engine, motor operation
• Steering
• Visibility, restrictions
• Fork, attachment operation
• Capacity
• Stability
• Inspection, maintenance
• Refueling, recharging
• Operating limitations
• Operator’s manual instructions, precautions

Workplace-related topics are examples like these:

• Surfaces
• Load composition
• Load handling
• Pedestrians
• Narrow, restricted areas
• Hazardous (classified) locations
• Ramps
• Poor ventilation
• Other hazards

#3 Determine success

The trainees must successfully complete the formal and practical instruction, but how you determine success is up to you. For the classroom portion, you could give a written or oral test or otherwise evaluate the trainees’ knowledge. For the practical training, the trainee must be able to safely perform all the operations used on the job.

#4 End here

An evaluation of the operator’s performance in the workplace must be conducted at the time of initial training. And an evaluation is required to determine the effectiveness of any refresher training.

Also, you must conduct an evaluation at least every three years. This means that at least once every three years every operator must be observed while they operate in the workplace under actual workplace conditions. During the evaluation, the operator must also be able to answer pertinent questions to demonstrate they have the knowledge to operate the forklift safely.

A key point to note here, this evaluation must be more than just a written or verbal test. The employer must observe the operator in action performing all typical tasks related to running the forklift. And, going back to where we started, the evaluation must be conducted by someone who has the knowledge, training, and experience to evaluate the truck operator’s competence.

Document the evaluation — this means placing a record in your training file that includes the name of the operator, the date of the training, the date of the evaluation, and the identity of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation.

Action item

This may be a good time for you to review your options for training forklift operators to ensure they’re meeting these guidelines. And, it’s always a great idea to have all your training procedures in written format for consistency.

Key to remember

Training forklift operators is an OSHA requirement. Follow this step-by-step guide and you can do it in-house.