North Carolina Forklifts: What you need to know

North Carolina has adopted by reference the federal workplace safety and health standards for general industry (13 NCAC 7F.0101) and construction (13 NCAC 7F.0201). North Carolina has additional requirements for forklifts.

The Occupational Safety and Health Division (OSH) of the North Carolina Department of Labor is responsible for administering the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

All powered industrial trucks must be serviced, maintained, and operated in accordance with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.178.

Additional requirements include:

• Forklifts and tractors must be equipped with roll over protective structure and seat belts.
• Signs instructing operators to shut off the engines when refueling their vehicles must be conspicuously located at all fueling stations. Smoking in these areas must be absolutely prohibited and a "No Smoking" sign must be prominently displayed. All fueling stations must be located outside the building.
• Mirrors or other aids must be provided to assist in the safe movement of mobile equipment at blind corners.
• When a vehicle is used to move a shop buggy, tow bars, chains, or cables must be used to attach the buggy to the vehicle so the operator can control the movement of the buggy while towing.

All individuals whose duties require the handling of materials must be given instructions for the proper selection and use of material handling devices.