Q: Is there an actual OSHA requirement relating to a forklift mounted man basket? If not, what other “rules” apply to this type of equipment?
A: There is not an actual general industry standard concerning mounted man baskets on forklifts. However companies must abide by The American National Standards Institute (ANSI). ANSI’s standard regarding mounted man baskets on forklifts is B56.6. In this standard it covers the design, training, and machine requirements. Listed below are a few examples as to what it covers.
- Requires both the forklift operator and the employee in the man basket to be properly trained on the use of the work platform.
- Requires the employees to be trained on the use of seat belts, lanyards, and the use of hard hats.
- Requires the forklift operator to have training on inspecting the man basket, attaching the man basket, as well as how to properly operate the man basket when employees are inside.
- Requires that both sides of the man basket lock into place on the forklift so the basket will not slide.
- The use of the man basket is to be the last option.
- Requires safety belt attachment points.
- Ladders are not allowed inside of the man basket to reach high.
- A first aid kit and fire extinguisher must be inside the man basket.
- The forklift operator can only move the platform up and down when employees are inside of the basket.
- The basket is required to have the following – two boards, handrails, a gate locked in place, and a load capacity.
