PDFWAC 296-863-60005

Make sure PIT operators are trained.

(1) You must make sure employees successfully complete an operator training program before operating PITs. The only time a trainee can operate a PIT is:
(a) Under the direct supervision of a person who has the knowledge, training, and experience to train and evaluate operators; and
(b) When operating the PIT does not endanger the trainee or other employees.
(2) You must make sure training is done by you or someone you designate that has the knowledge, training, and experience to:
(a) Conduct the training; and
(b) Evaluate trainee competence.
(3) You must make sure your operator training program consists of:
(a) Formal instruction such as lecture and discussion, interactive computer learning, video tapes, and written material;
(b) Practical training such as demonstrations done by the trainer and practical exercises performed by trainees;
(c) Evaluation of trainee performance.
(4) You must make sure the initial operator training program covers the subjects in Table 4, Required Training Topics.
Note:
If an operator has previously received training specified in Table 4, Required Training Topics, additional training in that topic is not required if:
 
1. The training was appropriate to the PIT and working conditions in your workplace; and
 
2. The employee has passed a PIT performance evaluation within the last three years.
Table 4
Required Training Topics
Topics related to powered industrial truck
Topics related to your workplace
Operating instructions
Surface conditions where the PIT will be operated
Warnings and precautions for the types of PIT the operator will be authorized to operate
Composition of loads to be carried and load stability
Differences between the PIT and the automobile
Load manipulation, stacking, and unstacking
PIT controls and instrumentation: Where they are located, what they do, and how they work
Pedestrian traffic in areas where the PIT will be operated
Engine or motor operation
Narrow aisles and other restricted places where the PIT will be operated
Steering and maneuvering
Use of door opening and closing devices
Visibility (including restrictions due to loading)
Hazardous (classified) locations where the PIT will be operated
Fork and attachment adaptation, operation, and use limitations
Ramps and other sloped surfaces that could affect the PITs stability
PIT capacity
Closed environments and other areas where insufficient ventilation or poor PIT maintenance could cause a buildup of carbon monoxide or diesel exhaust
PIT stability
Other unique or potentially hazardous environmental conditions in the workplace that could affect safe operation
Any PIT inspection and maintenance that the operator will be required to perform
 
Refueling
 
Charging and recharging of batteries
 
Operating limitations
 
Any other operating instructions, warnings, or precautions listed in the operator's manual for the types of PIT that the employee is being trained to operate
 
(5) You must keep written records of operator training and evaluations that include the following information:
(a) Name of the operator;
(b) Date of the training;
(c) Date of the evaluation;
(d) Name of the person giving the training or evaluation.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 17-18-075, § 296-863-60005, filed 9/5/17, effective 10/6/17; WSR 04-19-051, § 296-863-60005, filed 9/14/04, effective 2/1/05.]