Powered Industrial Vehicles (PIV) commonly referred to as Powered Industrial Trucks (PIT) benefit us greatly in moving mail, reducing our physical burden by allowing us to lift, carry, and load more packages each day. With this increased benefit also comes a greater need for caution and safety when working with any form of PIV.
The Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA®), defines PIV as “Forklifts, tractors, platform lift trucks powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines.” OSHA also provides safety measures to keep employees safe while working with or around these types of equipment. It is important that every facility and any employee working with or around these types of equipment understand and follow these safety measures.
Operators must complete the applicable operator training in LMS. Initial classroom training along with certified on the job instructor certification is required to receive proficiency or operator badge. Refresher training is required every 3 years to maintain certification.
PIV drivers’ observations must be conducted and documented on PS Form 4584-P, Observation of Driving Practices — Powered Industrial Trucks. To enforce a high standard of professional and safe operating performance, the following minimum number of driving observations must be completed:
n Initial (within 30 days of training).
n Refresher (Accident or Near-Miss Incident).
n Semi-annual (every 6 months).
Note: Refresher training is required when the operator has been observed, evaluated operating the PIT in an unsafe manner, or has been involved in a PIT accident – regardless of fault.
Before each use, operators must wear their Certificate of Familiarization and Safe Operation of Powered Industrial Equipment or an equivalent badge identifying their authorization to operate PIV equipment.
Conduct a Pre-Tour Safety Inspection to identify defects that could affect safety. Report any identified defects on PS Form 4707, Out of Order, remove from service and report defects to the supervisor.
n Operators are prohibited from making modifications to PIVs without the manufacturer’s written approval.
n They must always wear their seat belts when in motion.
n Yield to pedestrians at all times.
n Never wear headphones or earbuds during operation.
n Follow all vehicle traffic lanes, speed limits, and towing procedures as identified in Handbook EL-801, Supervisors Safety Handbook.
n After use, the PIV must be returned to its proper storage location and keys removed to prevent unauthorized use.
For additional resources about Powered Industrial Vehicles:
n Review Handbook EL-801.
n Go to MyHR: Powered Industrial Vehicles (PIV) — MyHR at myhr.usps.gov/c/portal/login.
n SHMT Library under JSA’s.
n Review OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.178 (I)(4).
n Complete LMS training courses 52503-01 and 52503-02.
— Occupational Safety and Health,
Human Resources, 9-4-25
