The article, “Protecting our Workers: Powered Industrial Truck Safety” in Postal Bulletin 22343 (8-9-2012, page 3) is incorrect. The correct article is given here.
Powered industrial trucks (PITs) are used in many industries, primarily to move materials. Typically, within the Postal Service™ work environment, PITs contain an electric motor and are used to raise, lower, or move pallets and tow containers.
Employers must ensure that each powered industrial truck operator has been trained by a Competent/Qualified PIT instructor. Only trained and certified operators are permitted to utilize PIT equipment. Each certification must be written and contain the name of the operator, the date of the training, the evaluation dates, the name of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation, and the type of PIT equipment.
An evaluation of each PIT operator’s performance shall be conducted at least once every 3 years on each type of PIT the operator uses. Additionally, refresher training must be delivered when an unsafe operation is observed, when an accident or near-miss incident occurs, when an operator is assigned to operate a new type of PIT, or when conditions change.
To enforce a high standard of professional and safe operating performance, a minimum of two PIT observations must be conducted per employee annually using PS Form 4584-P, Observation of Driving Practices — Powered Industrial Trucks (PITs). This form, when used correctly, can aid in identifying and eliminating unsafe driving practices that can lead to accidents and injuries.
All PIT equipment must be examined before being placed in service and shall not be placed in service if the examination shows any condition adversely affecting the safe operation of the vehicle. All repairs shall be made by qualified personnel, and vehicles must be removed from service until the defect can be remedied.
— Safety and Health,
Employee Resource Management, 8-23-12
