WAC 296-863-60005   Make sure PIT operators are trained.  

     You must:

     • Make sure employees successfully complete an operator training program before operating PITs. The only time a trainee can operate a PIT is:

     – Under the direct supervision of a person who has the knowledge, training, and experience to train and evaluate operators;

     AND

     – When operating the PIT does not endanger the trainee or other employees.

     • Make sure training is done by you or someone you designate that has the knowledge, training, and experience to:

     – Conduct the training;

     AND

     – Evaluate trainee competence.

     • Make sure your operator training program consists of:

     – Formal instruction.

     ▪ Such as lecture and discussion, interactive computer learning, video tapes, and written material.

     – Practical training.

     ▪ Such as demonstrations done by the trainer and practical exercises performed by trainees.

     – Evaluation of trainee performance.

     • 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:
• The training was appropriate to the PIT and working conditions in your workplace;
AND
• 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

     You must:

     • Keep written records of operator training and evaluations that include the following information:

     – Name of the operator.

     – Date of the training.

     – Date of the evaluation.

     – Name of the person giving the training or evaluation.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 04-19-051, § 296-863-60005, filed 9/14/04, effective 2/1/05.]