Have you ever faced a challenge finding the best material handling lift attachment or a need to modify your powered equipment? Have you solved the problem in house by making your own device modifications? While being innovative is always good, there are design steps that must occur prior to actual safe usage. This process includes ensuring load capacities are sufficient and modified equipment is still safe to operate.
Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA) recognizes that this is needed in the workplace but requires assurances for safe usage through regulations: 29 CFR 1910.178(a)(4) and 29 CFR 1910.179(b)(3). These regulations require employers to obtain written approval from the original manufacturer for attachments or alterations to powered industrial trucks (PIT). Any modification that affects capacity and safe operation of PIT must be approved by the following:
- The manufacturer or
- A Professional Engineer’s approval after receiving no response or a negative response from the manufacturer.
Even when modifications are permitted under 1910.178(a)(4) and 1910.179(b)(3) or a professional engineer, the hazards that result from the alterations must be addressed. For example, if a work platform is attached to a PIT, it must first be approved. Then the fall hazards that result from the use of elevated platforms must be addressed. Any equipment that has been modified must also have proper labels and tags.
Spencer-SHE’s team of engineers and safety professionals have five decades of experience finding solutions in the workplace to ensure safety and compliance. Learn more about how Spencer-SHE can help you by visiting our Services page.