OSHA Proposes New Powered Industrial Trucks Rule

Updates are coming to OSHA’s general industry and construction industry rules to reflect current practices and new technology. 

The U.S. Department of Labor announced a notice of proposed rulemaking in February that will update the design and construction requirements for OSHA’s powered industrial truck standards. 

Business leaders should submit comments on the proposed rule by May 17. 

The proposed rule impacts trucks, tractors, platform lift trucks, motorized hand trucks, and other specialized industrial trucks powered by an electric motor or an internal combustion engine. 

Each type of truck presents different operating hazards in the workplace. 

Specifically, the proposed rule will include references from the American National Standard Institute and Industrial Truck Standards Development Foundation. 

DOL officials said the rule will address equipment manufacturing before the effective date of the final rule.