OSHA Regulations for Forklift Man Baskets

What is considered a forklift-mounted man basket?

OSHA considers forklift work platforms as removable attachments.nnUSA Standard B56.1-1969, Safety Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks Part II, 405 Nameplates and Markings (G) states, [o]n every removable attachment (excluding fork extensions), the attachment manufacturers shall install a durable corrosion-resistant nameplate, with the following information legibly and permanently inscribed: Serial number, Weight of Attachment, Capacity or Rated Capacity of attachment.n

How do you know if your forklift man basket is OSHA- and ANSI/ITSDF-compliant?

An OSHA-compliant man basket must meet certain ANSI specifications. ANSI takes into account the overall design, load capacity, and safety requirements.nnANSI's B56.1 code has numerous requirements on the construction of a forklift platform, including:n

• • The man basket must clearly indicate its load-bearing capacity. The combined weight of the platform, load, and personnel is not to exceed one-half of the capacity as indicated on the nameplate of the truck on which the platform is used.

• • Man baskets must use a mast guard to protect personnel from moving truck parts that pose a hazard.

• • Floor requirements include a slip-resistant surface and a minimum floor area per occupant.

• • Fall restraint means, such as a guardrail and/or a personal fall protection system.

• • A width that is no greater than the overall width of the truck (measured across the load-bearing tires) plus 10 in on either side.

• • Means to securely attach the platform to the lifting carriage or forks.

Each and every Lifting Technologies forklift man basket meets and exceeds the requirements for OSHA and ANSI/ITSDF safety standards. Our forklift personnel platforms also have the option to come with LT's unique Quick Claw® Safety System or a pin system for additional safety when attaching to the forklift.