A client
recently asked: Does OSHA require us to walk through the man-door between areas
when the overhead door used for material handling is open? The short answer is
no. However, whenever pedestrians and forklifts occupy the same area we have a
very hazardous condition.
Forklift
operators must be competent to operate the forklift. [1910.178(l)(1)(i)] And,
at a minimum, training must be renewed every three
years.[1910.178(l)(4)(iii)]
Additionally, the driver must look in the direction of, and keep a clear
view of, the path of travel. [29 CFR 1910.178(n)(6)] However, if the load being
carried obstructs forward view, the driver must drive with the load trailing.
[29 CFR 1910.178(n)(4)]
Helping further
to keep man and machine apart, OSHA requires safe clearances to be identified
for aisles, at loading docks, through doorways, and wherever you are making
turns. Aisles and passageways shall be kept clear and in good repair, with no
obstruction across or in aisles that could create a hazard. Permanent aisles
and passageways must be appropriately marked. [1910.176(a)] Also, storage areas
are to be kept clean and free of hazards (e.g., tripping, fire, explosion,
etc.). [1910.176(c)]
As a forklift
operator are you doing the following:
1. Yield right-of-way to
pedestrians.
2. When pedestrians walk across
your planned route:
a. Stop.
b. Wait until the pedestrians
pass.
c. Proceed cautiously through any congested area.
3. If an area is cluttered, walk
the route first to spot problems.
4. Check for situations that
require a spotter and use one when traveling.
5. Warn pedestrians, by asking
them to move, if there is not sufficient, safe clearance.
6. Sound the horn at blind
corners, doorways and aisles.
7. Sound the horn or other alarm
when you back up.
And as a pedestrian
are you:
1. Be aware that lift trucks
cannot stop suddenly. They are designed to stop slowly to minimize load damage
and maintain stability.
2. Stand clear of lift trucks in
operation.
3. Avoid a run-in. The driver's
visibility may be limited due to blind spots.
4. Be aware of the wide rear
swing radius.
5. Use pedestrian walkways, or
stay to one side of the equipment aisle.
6. Never ride on a forklift,
unless authorized and the forklift is designed for riders.
7. Never pass under an elevated
load.
So again,
whenever man and machine have the potential to occupy the same space bad things
can happen. Therefore, I recommend - use the man-door and keep away from the
forklifts.
Reference:
No comments:
Post a Comment