Is your forklift missing its seat belt? ProLift supplies forklift parts for all makes & models. REQUEST QUOTE
What safety precautions are required if we own a forklift designed prior to the seat belt requirement?
OSHA does not directly address seat belt requirements in federal regulation 1910.178. When the law does not directly answer an issue, OSHA letters of interpretation become the next resource to offer a clearer explanation.
Forklift Seat Belt Retro-Fit Kit
Seat belts were introduced on forklifts during the late 1980’s. Although not all, many manufacturers offered retro-fit kits to install seat belts on older forklifts. In many cases the adjustment went beyond bolting on a seat belt. Instead the requirements included a change in hood, latch and hinge design or battery retention systems. Some forklifts went as far to require an overall seat redesign. Because of the complexity, some manufacturers offered kits, others did not and some offered solutions for select models only.
The best safety precaution is to replace a pre-1988 forklift. If that option is not possible, record the model and serial number on the forklift and contact the manufacturer to inquire about installing a selt belt retro-fit kit. While OSHA does not officially state they will cite an employer for an older forklift in use without a seat belt, the likelihood of a citation based on General Duty Clause 5(a)(1) increases if the manufacturer offers the kit.
ProLift offers safety training classes for forklifts, aerial lifts and skid steers. Contact our Safety Specialist to schedule training!