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The EPA definition: “RCRA empty” explained

Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), a container that once held hazardous waste is only legally “empty” if it meets particular criteria outlined in 40 CFR 261.7. The first standard that must be satisfied is that all material has been removed from the container using normal means such as pouring, pumping, or aspirating. Secondly, no more than 2.5 centimeters or 1 inch of residue remains on the container's bottom or inner lining. Additionally, if the container holds less than 110 gallons, it is empty if no more than 3 percent of the total weight or volume exists. Of course, sometimes special circumstances require further evaluation. For example, a gas cylinder is not empty until the pressure has reduced to atmospheric levels, and acute hazardous waste containers must be triple rinsed with an appropriate solvent or cleaned by another approved method. If these conditions are not met, the container is still legally considered to contain hazardous waste, even if it feels empty.

The OSHA definition: “Empty” under the Hazard Communication Standard

While EPA focuses on environmental disposal and waste management, OSHA’s concern with empty containers centers on worker safety, particularly the potential for exposure to hazardous residues or vapors. Under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200), a container that previously held hazardous chemicals must retain its original hazard label until it is adequately cleaned or until the employer removes the label following proper decontamination procedures. For example, a drum labeled “Flammable” must keep this label even if it appears empty, as residual material or vapors may still pose a significant ignition or fire risk. Removing such labels prematurely could lead to workplace hazards and violations of OSHA regulations.

How to stay compliant

Employers must first clearly determine which rules apply to them: whether the container held hazardous materials governed by EPA regulations, hazardous chemicals subject to OSHA requirements, or both. Emptying procedures should be followed, including properly draining the container, performing triple-rinsing when required, and thoroughly documenting all decontamination activities. Original hazard labels must be maintained on containers until they are thoroughly cleaned or reconditioned, as removing labels prematurely violates OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard. Additionally, employers should provide employees with training on the proper handling, labeling, and disposal of containers and ensure they fully understand what constitutes an empty container under federal standards. Finally, a detailed record of all rinsing, draining, and cleaning processes should be maintained to demonstrate compliance during EPA or state inspections.

Keys to remember: Employers should educate their teams, enforce proper cleaning procedures, and maintain compliance records to ensure they are staying compliant with “empty” container standards.

What’s a WCPP?

When specific uses of chemical substances (i.e., conditions of use) in an occupational setting may pose unreasonable risks of injury to employees or the environment, Section 6 of TSCA requires EPA to develop regulations that reduce or mitigate those risks. The agency implements WCPPs to address the risks.

A WCPP requires covered entities to take certain actions in the workplace that shield individuals who engage with the conditions of use from inhalation and/or dermal risk.

Who’s subject to a WCPP?

The requirements of a WCPP may apply to entities that manufacture (including import), process, distribute in commerce, use, or dispose of a TSCA-regulated chemical substance.

The WCPP program extends beyond those who directly handle a regulated chemical substance to anyone in the workplace who’s exposed or who could be exposed to it (e.g., employees, independent contractors, volunteers, etc.).

What are the components of a WCPP?

A WCPP generally consists of multiple elements:

• Exposure limits, such as Existing Chemical Exposure Limits (ECELs), set the amount or concentration of a chemical substance that can be in the air.
• ECEL action levels establish airborne concentration limits that, if exceeded, activate additional requirements (like more frequent monitoring).
• Exposure monitoring measures and compares air concentration levels to the exposure limits.
• Regulated areas establish where airborne concentrations of the chemical substance are above or have a reasonable possibility to go above exposure limits. Facilities limit access to these areas to control exposure.
• An Exposure Control Plan documents the selection and implementation of controls used to reduce exposure. It's developed according to the hierarchy of controls, which mandates that the most protective actions used to reduce hazardous exposures be considered first. The general order is elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and then personal protective equipment (PPE) use.
• Dermal and inhalation control measures may consist of direct dermal contact control measures (like removing the chemical substance at the source before a worker encounters it) and PPE use (such as requiring workers to wear chemical-resistant gloves or use respirators when handling the chemical substance).
• Training applies to workers who are or could be exposed to the chemical substance and typically covers multiple elements of the WCPP (work processes, proper PPE use, and exposure controls, for example).
• Recordkeeping demonstrates compliance with the WCPP. Facilities usually have to maintain records of monitoring results, Exposure Control Plans, regulated areas and those authorized to use them, training, and PPE programs.
• Downstream notifications alert others in the supply chain of WCPP requirements. Manufacturers, processors, and distributors generally provide the required information on a chemical substance’s Safety Data Sheet.

Know the chemical-specific requirements

If your facility is subject to a WCPP, it’s essential to know the regulations that apply to the specific chemical substance. The chemical’s rule will define the conditions of use to which the WCPP applies and may contain different or additional requirements. Also, state or local regulations may have stricter rules that dictate how (and if) your facility can use the chemical substance.

Key to remember: Facilities that use TSCA-regulated chemical substances may have to comply with EPA’s workplace chemical protection program to protect workers and other exposed individuals from unreasonable health risks.

Who will be affected?

The stricter PM_2.5 rule will impact many industries, particularly those that emit a lot of fine particle pollution. Some of the most affected sectors include:

• Manufacturing & Heavy Industry – Factories making steel, cement, or chemicals may need stronger pollution controls.
• Power Generation – Coal and gas power plants may have tighter limits, requiring better filtration systems.
• Transportation & Logistics – Ports, rail yards, and trucking centers could have new rules reducing diesel pollution.
• Construction & Mining – Dust and particles from digging, moving materials, and using equipment may need stricter control.
• Agriculture – Large farms, especially those handling animals or grain, may need better dust control.
• Oil & Gas – Refineries and drilling sites may face tougher rules on pollution from burning fuel.

These industries may see higher costs, stricter permits, and changes to operations to meet the new standards.

Tougher pollution limits

Businesses in nonattainment areas must follow stricter PM_2.5 rules. This may mean updating operations or investing in better pollution control technology. The goal is to reduce fine particle emissions that harm air quality and health.

New permit rules

Businesses expanding or changing operations that increase PM_2.5 pollution may need new permits. These permits show compliance with tighter pollution limits.

State rules may change

States with nonattainment areas must update their air quality plans. This could mean new industry rules, such as lowering emissions, increasing monitoring, or changing reporting requirements.

Increased monitoring & reporting

Expect closer tracking of your business’s pollution levels, including real-time monitoring and more frequent reports. Compliance checks may be stricter in nonattainment areas.

Offsetting pollution

If a business increases PM_2.5 pollution, it may need to offset that by reducing pollution somewhere else in the same area. This ensures the total pollution level does not rise.

Costs & economic effects

Businesses in nonattainment areas may see higher costs due to stricter rules. Local governments might offer rewards or fines to encourage pollution reductions. Companies may need to find cost-effective ways to lower their PM_2.5 levels while staying efficient.

How to prepare

• Review your business’s pollution levels and find ways to lower them.
• Stay updated on new local and federal rules.
• Work with state agencies to understand new compliance expectations.
• Invest in cleaner technology to stay ahead of regulations.

Key to Remember: By having a plan for the possibility of nonattainment now, your business can adjust to the new PM_2.5 rules while helping improve air quality and public health.

How it works today

If a driver or motor carrier files an RDR, it gets forwarded to the agency that generated the record, such as the State Patrol in the case of a crash or roadside inspection. The agency then reviews the RDR, does an investigation, and makes a decision to either change the data or reject the request.

If the RDR is rejected, the requester can submit an appeal, but the state agency may require new information before reviewing the matter or may let the same people who rejected the initial RDR also review the appeal, creating a conflict of interest.

Once the appeal is decided, the state agency and FMCSA consider the case closed.

Proposed changes

The FMCSA says it wants to “improve the impartiality, timeliness, transparency, and fundamental fairness of the RDR process.” Though in 2023 it had proposed injecting itself into the appeals process, the agency now wants the states to handle it. Among other changes being proposed:

• Good-faith reviews: States must conduct a good-faith review of RDRs that are submitted within three years from the date of an inspection or five years from the date of a crash, and must have established points of contact for RDRs.
• State plans: States must submit a “DataQs Implementation Plan” detailing how they will process RDRs and how they will address any existing or future backlog of RDRs. The plan would have to be made public and be reviewed and updated annually.
• Appeals: Requesters will be allowed two appeals. When a state receives an initial RDR, a first-level appeal (known as a “reconsideration review”), or a request for a “final review,” the state will be expected to open the request within seven days of submission and then respond within 21 days, or 30 days for a final review. If the state requests more information, the requester will be given 14 days to provide it, and the clock will stop while the requester gathers additional information. Requesters are expected to have a valid reason for any appeal.
• Rejections: When a state closes an RDR or appeal without correcting any data, the issuing officer/inspector cannot be the sole decisionmaker and the state must explain the facts and analysis supporting the decision.
• Expertise: Appeals must go before a person or panel with “appropriate subject matter expertise” and cannot be reviewed or decided by the issuing officer/inspector nor their direct supervisor. A “final review” must be done by someone outside the chain of command for the issuing officer/inspector, and a panel may be used to provide recommendations to that person.

The state’s decision would be considered final by the FMCSA after the state’s final review is complete.

States that fail to live up to their DataQs obligations would be at risk of losing highway funds.

Five questions

The FMCSA is asking for input on five key questions related to their proposal:

1. What are the potential benefits and challenges of the proposed changes?
2. What challenges will states face in adhering to the timelines for each stage of the RDR process? How should delays be handled?
3. How should states be held accountable for compliance?
4. If a requester doesn’t respond with additional or proper information when requested, how should the RDR be handled?
5. To what extent should FMCSA define the criteria for a “valid reason” for an appeal?

Comments may be submitted online until September 2, 2025, at www.regulations.gov under docket number FMCSA-2023-0190.

Key to remember: The FMCSA is proposing improvements to the DataQs system, and now’s your chance to weigh in.

The basics of logging exemptions

To be able to use this logging exemption in 395.1(e)(1), the driver must:

• Stay within 150 air-miles of the work reporting location for the day (draw a 150 air-mile radius circle around the work reporting location for the day — the driver must stay within this circle),
• Be back to — and released from — the work reporting location for his/her 8- or 10-hour break within 14 hours, and
• Include the starting and ending times for the day and the total hours on duty on the time record for the day.

The company must retain the time record and have it available for inspection for six months.

What if the driver goes too far or works too many hours?

If the driver cannot meet the terms of the exemption (he or she goes too far or works too many hours), the driver must complete a regular driver’s log for the day as soon as the exemption no longer applies.

If the driver has had to complete a log 8 or fewer days out of the last 30 days, the driver can use a paper log for the day. If the driver had to complete a log more than 8 days out of the last 30 days, the driver needs to use an electronic log for the day (unless one of the ELD exemptions applies, such as operating a vehicle older than model year 2000).

30-minute break exemption

When a property-carrying driver is operating under the 150 air-mile exemption, the driver is also exempt from having to take the required 30-minute break (see 395.3(a)(3)(ii)).

If the driver began the day as a 150 air-mile driver and has driven more than 8 consecutive hours without a break, and something unexpected happens and the driver can no longer use the 150 air-mile exemption, the driver must stop and immediately take the 30-minute break as well as start logging. If the driver went outside of the 150 air-mile area before the driver had 8 hours of driving without a break from driving, the driver would be expected to take the break at the appropriate time.

Common myths

Here are some of the common myths and misunderstandings about the 150 air-mile exemption:

• The driver must have the time records in the vehicle. Myth. The driver simply needs to explain to an officer during a roadside inspection that he/she does not have logs due to operating under the 150 air-mile exemption and that the required time records are back at the carrier’s office (just telling the officer, “I don’t have any logs” will lead to a violation, so the driver needs to know to provide the full explanation).
• The driver must log the previous seven days if he/she had been using this exemption and suddenly can’t. Myth. If the driver cannot use the exemption on one particular day, that is the only day the driver must use a regular log (either paper or electronic).
• Passenger-carrying drivers and drivers hauling hazardous materials cannot use this exemption. Myth. There are no restrictions on the use of this exemption, so any commercial driver can use it.
• A driver that crosses state lines cannot use this exemption. Myth. As this exemption appears in the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) regulations, it can be used by interstate drivers.
• Only drivers that operate out of a “company terminal” can use the 150 air-mile exemption. Myth. As long as the driver makes it back to the work reporting location for the day within the appropriate number of hours, the driver can use the exemption.
• Drivers that move from one jobsite to another every few weeks cannot use this exemption. Myth. If a driver that normally uses this exemption switches work reporting locations, the day the driver switches work reporting locations is the only day the driver cannot use the exemption.
• Drivers covered by this exemption are also exempt from the driver qualification (licensing and medical cards), driving, and vehicle inspection requirements. Myth. The only rules the driver is exempt from are the logging requirement in 395.8 and the 30-minute break requirement in 395.3.
• The driver cannot drive more than 150 miles for the day. Myth. The driver can drive as many miles as he/she wants to or needs to, as long as the driver stays within the 150 air-mile radius circle and gets back to the work reporting location within the appropriate number of hours.
• If a 150 air-mile driver gets into a vehicle with an ELD, the driver must use it. Myth. The carrier can have the driver log in and have the driver entered into the system as an “exempt driver,” or the carrier can request that the driver not log into the device and then attach a comment to the unassigned driving time generated by the driver’s movements. The comment would need to explain that the driver using the vehicle was a 150 air-mile driver who submitted a time record. It is up to the carrier to decide which option to use. If stopped for a roadside inspection, the driver will need to be able to explain to the inspector that he/she is an exempt driver using the 150 air-mile exemption, so using the electronic log is not required.

What’s different with the ‘150 air-mile non-CDL property-carrying drivers’

The 150 air-mile exemption at 395.1(e)(2) only applies to drivers that: Operate property-carrying vehicles that do not require a CDL to operate, and Stay within the 150 air-miles of their work reporting location.

If the driver stays within the 150 air-mile radius of the work reporting location, and returns to the work reporting location within 14 hours on 5 of the last 7 days, and 16 hours on 2 of the last seven days, the driver is allowed to use a time record in place of a log.

If the driver does not meet the terms of the exception, the driver will need to complete a log for the day. If the driver had to log more than 8 days out of the last 30 days, the driver will need to use an electronic log for the day. All of the other issues discussed above would apply to these drivers as well.

Managing the use

If you have drivers that use these exemptions, you will need to check time records to make sure they are complying with the appropriate time limits. You will also need to check movement records to verify that the drivers using these exemptions are staying within the mandated area (within 150 air-miles of the work reporting location for the day).

If a driver is over the hours limit, or has gone too far, you need to verify that the submitted a log for the day, either paper or electronic, depending on how many days the driver had to log out of the previous 30 days.

Verifying compliance is important

During an audit, if it is discovered that your drivers are using these exemptions incorrectly, you will be cited for not having drivers’ logs when required. Each day this occurred will be another violation, so the fine could be rather large if you are not managing the use of these exemptions!

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.

Encourage employees to walk this way

While there is nothing wrong with a simple stroll, there are ways to make a walk even more beneficial. Here are six walking tips to share with employees:

1. Pick up the pace. Walking at a faster pace brings additional health benefits. To get these benefits, walk at a brisk pace that’s a little faster than a comfortable walk. Some studies point to benefits from walking 3 miles per hour or faster.
2. Count steps but don’t get discouraged. Aiming for 10,000 steps a day is common, and that’s a great goal when it encourages you to move more. If that’s just too much, don’t worry. There are also health benefits from lower step counts. A JAMA study followed people 40 years of age and above for 10 years, and found that those who took 8,000 steps a day had a 51 percent lower rate of death than those who took 4,000 daily steps or fewer.
3. Use a weighted vest. Adding weight can add intensity to a walking workout. To make sure you get one that’s right for your fitness level, check with a health professional or fitness trainer before using one.
4. Walk in nature. Walking in a forest or near a river can make you feel better. Studies have found that walking in nature can decrease depression and anxiety, as well as anger and fatigue. Walking on a treadmill or at the mall is still great exercise, but there are additional benefits from being outdoors.
5. Be mindful. Being aware of the world around you and how your body feels as you’re moving may help lower stress levels and improve your mood. You can practice walking meditation to combine the benefits of walking and mindfulness.
6. Walk with a friend. Turning a walk into a social activity combats loneliness and can also help you exercise your brain. As you talk, you’re boosting thinking and memory skills. In addition, being accountable to a friend helps you stay on schedule with your exercise routine and can motivate you to keep going.

Walking the talk

To encourage employees to use the walking tips and gain the health benefits of exercise, make your workplace activity-friendly. Here are some ideas:

• Create a walking path employees can use at lunchtime or during a break.

• Reward employees who get more steps into their day by parking in the last rows of the parking lot.
• Organize daily, weekly, or monthly lunchtime walks. Managers can participate to show their support.

Key to remember: Walking is a healthy activity and adding a few enhancements can make it even more beneficial.

FMLA certification basics

Employers aren’t required to use certifications, but if they do, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has five different certification forms to use for various FMLA leave situations.

The forms are as follows:

1. Certification of Health Care Provider for Employee's Serious Health Condition,
2. Certification of Health Care Provider for Family Member's Serious Health Condition,
3. Certification of Qualifying Exigency for Military Family Leave,
4. Certification for Serious Injury or Illness of a Current Servicemember for Military Family Leave, and
5. Certification for Serious Injury or Illness of a Veteran for Military Family Leave.

Let’s focus on the first two, as these are the most common ones HR administrators use.

Who can fill out an FMLA certification?

The FMLA regulations describe the person who has the authority to fill out a certification as a “health care provider.” The good news is, the regulations include a lengthy list of medical professionals who fit this role.

Under the FMLA, a health care provider includes:

• A doctor of medicine or osteopathy,
• A podiatrist,
• A dentist,
• A clinical psychologist,
• An optometrist,
• A chiropractor (limited to manual manipulation of the spine as demonstrated by X-ray),
• A nurse practitioner,
• A nurse midwife,
• A clinical social worker,
• A physician assistant,
• A Christian Science practitioner, and
• Any health care provider from whom the employer or the employer's group health plan's benefits manager will accept a medical certification to substantiate a claim for benefits.

To be qualified to fill out FMLA forms, medical professionals must be authorized to practice in the state and perform within the scope of their practice. This means that the provider must be authorized to diagnose and treat physical or mental health conditions.

What about doctors in a foreign country?

If an employee or an employee's family member is visiting another country, or a family member resides in another country, and a serious health condition develops, the employer must accept a medical certification from a health care provider who practices in that country. This includes second and third opinions.

If a medical certification from a foreign health care provider is not in English, the employee may be required to provide a written translation of the certification.

Key to remember: The FMLA regulations spell out which medical professionals can fill out certification forms.

Inpatient care explained

Inpatient care is an overnight stay in a health care facility. If the employee or family member had an overnight stay, it’s an FMLA serious health condition regardless of how many days of work the employee missed.

If the employee or family member did not have an overnight stay, employers move on to the continuing treatment part of the definition.

Continuing treatment defined

A serious health condition involving continuing treatment includes the following:

• A period of incapacity of more than three, consecutive, full calendar days, and any subsequent treatment that also involves:
  • Treatment two or more times within 30 days of the first day of incapacity by a health care provider, or
  • Treatment at least once, resulting in a regimen of continuing treatment.
• Any period of incapacity due to pregnancy or for prenatal care.
• Any period of incapacity (or treatment for) a chronic serious health condition requiring treatments at least twice per year and continuing over an extended period of time. These may cause episodic rather than continuing periods of incapacity.
• A period of incapacity for a permanent or long-term condition in which treatment may not be effective.
• Any period of absence to receive multiple treatments (i.e., chemotherapy, radiation, physical therapy, dialysis), for restorative surgery, or for a condition that would likely result in a period of incapacity of more than three consecutive, full, calendar days if treatment isn’t received.

Not all parts of the definition above will apply to a particular situation. The only part of the continuing treatment segment that involves three days, for example, falls under the first bullet. For all the other parts, any period of incapacity would be FMLA leave. An employee doesn’t need to miss three days of work.

Focus on incapacity not absence when applying FMLA leave

The period of more than three days applies to how long the individual is incapacitated, not how many days of work the employee missed. If, for example, an employee who normally works Monday through Friday suffers a serious health condition on Friday evening and is incapacitated until Wednesday, the period of incapacity is more than three days. The employee missed only two days of work, but those two days would be FMLA leave.

Failure to designate an absence as FMLA leave when it is called for risks a claim that the employer interfered with the employee’s FMLA rights.

Key to remember: Employees don’t have to miss three days of work to trigger an employer’s FMLA obligations.

#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.

What's the big deal?

To answer this question, let's look at a few recent examples of incidents involving devices containing lithium-ion batteries.

In June, a fire in New York led to injuries to one resident, four paramedics, and nine firefighters. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but preliminary analysis suggests it was connected to five lithium-ion batteries, two of which were being charged at the residence.

In October 2023, a fire occurred at an electric vehicle battery manufacturer in Georgia . The incident led to several workers experiencing potentially permanent respiratory issues due to exposure to toxic fumes, including hydrofluoric acid vapors released during the lithium-ion battery fire. OSHA cited the company for five serious violations, proposing penalties exceeding $77,000.

What are lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere—powering our phones, laptops, toothbrushes, power tools, and more. Some may say they're a technological marvel due to light weight, rechargeability, and ability to pack a lot of power into a small package.

In layman’s terms, they work like most other batteries. Lithium ions move back and forth between two components called the anode and cathode. This movement allows the battery to charge and discharge, powering all kinds of devices.

But while they're efficient and compact, lithium-ion batteries can also be prone to damage. Overcharging, poor maintenance, physical damage, or improper disposal can lead to serious concerns. Reinforcing the reasons for diligence when using these amazing devices.

What are the dangers?

Lithium-ion batteries are highly efficient and widely used for their reliability. When handled correctly, they are safe and effective. However, it's important for users to understand that improper use or damage can lead to serious risks of injury, including:

• Thermal runaway – a chain reaction where the battery overheats and can catch fire or explode; often caused by overcharging, damage, or high temperatures.
• Fire or explosion – happens when the battery is overheated, punctured, or short-circuited.
• Short circuits – can cause sparks, fires, or electric shock, especially if the battery is damaged or improperly handled.
• Physical damage – dropping, crushing, or puncturing a battery can make it unsafe to use or charge.
• Chemical leaks – damaged batteries can leak harmful chemicals that may burn skin or irritate lungs.
• Improper disposal – throwing batteries in the trash can lead to fires in trash bins, garbage trucks, or landfills.

What can we do to stay safe?

Lithium-ion batteries power our daily lives and using them safely is crucial. As incidents rise, regulatory organizations are taking notice. Recently the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has launched its “Charge into Safety” campaign to raise awareness about lithium-ion battery hazards. You can help prevent accidents by following these key safety tips:

• Use proper equipment - ensure you are using chargers and batteries that are certified for the specific device and are recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid using cheap, off-brand replacements.
• Store and charge safely - store batteries in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight. Heat is one of the biggest threats to lithium-ion battery safety. They should be kept in a cool, well-ventilated area, and away from sources of moisture which can cause corrosion or short circuits.
• Inspect often - check for swelling, leaks, or damage. Stop using damaged batteries immediately.
• Train workers - ensure anyone who handles these batteries understands how to use them safely, can recognize concerns, and knows how to respond to emergencies that may occur from use.
• Dispose correctly – dispose of them responsibly. Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycle batteries at approved centers.

Key to remember: Lithium-ion batteries power our modern world, but when not used responsibly, they can be dangerous. Stay safe by using certified equipment, charging and storing batteries and devices properly, inspecting them regularly, training users, and recycling responsibly.

Laws rarely change

Most bills introduced in Congress never become laws. On the other hand, Congress almost never successfully repeals a law (like the Affordable Care Act). The battle over how to implement and enforce federal laws often takes place at the agency and regulatory level.

Effectively, regulations are interpretations describing how the agency will enforce federal statutes, but those regulations carry the force of law. When a regulation gets repealed or revised, a business might have a lower standard to meet, but it still has obligations. As noted, the repeal usually ends up restoring an older regulation, perhaps one that was last in effect ten years ago or more, and employers probably don’t remember exactly what those provisions required.

The point is that a repeal is still a change to a regulation. Employers will need to identify their revised obligations and implement plans for complying with the changed requirements.

Letters of Interpretation

As clarified in an OSHA Letter of Interpretation (LOI) dated October 18, 1995, “When any part of the body of an entrant breaks the plane of the opening of a PRCS large enough to allow full entry, entry is considered to have occurred and a permit is required, regardless of whether there is an intent to fully enter the space.”

This definition of “entry” might seem to be too strict. Still, OSHA’s letter clarifies that there are situations where a partial entry would be hazardous: “Examples of situations where entry by only part of the body into a PRCS can expose an entrant to the possibility of injury or illness are as follows:

1. An entrant can possibly suffer a burn while reaching into a PRCS, which is so classified because it contains a thermal hazard.
2. An entrant can possibly fall into a below-grade PRCS while standing on a vertical ladder in the opening of the space, which is so classified because it contains an oxygen-deficient atmosphere.
3. An entrant can possibly become unconscious as result of his head accidentally entering a PRCS while they are reaching into a PRCS, which is so classified because it contains an oxygen deficient atmosphere.”

As another example, if the space contains a flammable or oxygen-enriched atmosphere, and if the activities during a partial entry could produce a spark or other ignition source, then a fire in the space could flash out of the opening and cause serious injuries to the employee.

OSHA’s guidance continues

This doesn’t necessarily mean you’d be fined if a permit wasn’t followed when someone reached a tank. OSHA’s guidance continues: “However, if entry by only part of the body does not expose the entrant to the possibility of injury or illness, then the violation may be considered a ‘de minimis’ violation.”

A de minimis violation is one in which a standard is violated, but the violation has no direct or immediate relationship to employee safety or health. These violations are documented but no citations are issued.

OSHA says examples of situations where entry by only part of the body into a PRCS would not expose an entrant to the possibility of injury or illness are as follows:

1. An entrant reaches through the opening of a horizontal PRCS, which is so classified only because it contains exposed live electrical parts ten feet from the opening.
2. An entrant puts his head through the opening of an overhead PRCS, which is so classified only because it contains unguarded rotating parts ten feet from the opening.

Also, consider a situation such as a worker reaching through a small grate to take a sample from a permitted space. The LOI further states, “If a part of the body were placed in an opening through which the worker could not pass into the permit-required confined space, no PRCS entry will have occurred.”

Keep in mind, however, that the employee would still need protection from any hazards involved in the task, but a permit would not be needed.

Key to remember

When any part of the body of an entrant breaks the plane of the opening of a PRCS large enough to allow full entry, entry is considered to have occurred, and a permit is required.

Follow the procedures

Mechanics may work on dozens of machines, and each machine may have unique lockout/tagout procedures. But do the mechanics actually read and follow the procedures for each machine? Or do they just “know what to do” based on experience? Could other maintenance staff follow the procedures as written?

Make sure that authorized employees actually follow the procedures. If they are unsure about any part of a procedure, or if they skip a step that doesn’t make sense, then the procedure should be updated.

If additional training is needed, it may be best to conduct the training at the machine and ask the mechanics to indicate where the procedure is unclear. If the questions are more than the training group can handle, you may need to call in an expert (electrician, engineer, etc.).

As necessary, revise the procedure until it’s understandable. You want the procedures to be accurate and easy to use. If veteran mechanics think the procedure is hard to follow (or if they have ideas on how to improve the written steps), you want to correct those issues before contractors or new employees need to rely on the procedure.

Complete and accurate procedures not only keep your company in compliance, but help keep your employees safe.