Requirements:
General

Authorization

Non-routine work involving the use of a PIV will follow the work authorization process described in Chapter 2, “Work Authorization”. The building/facility/area managers of the location where non-routine PIV operations are to take place will authorize the work, and the PIV operator’s supervisor will authorize the individual’s use of the vehicle.

Electrical Hazards

Because of the hazards posed by electrical systems, PIV work in the proximity of unprotected or exposed electrical systems must be authorized by the building/facility/area manager of the location where the work is taking place, and must comply with SLAC electrical work requirements as outlined in Chapter 8, “Electrical Safety”. An energized work permit detailing the safety precautions and procedures must be obtained with directorate approval.

Work is considered in proximity to electrical systems if the work is inside the limited approach boundary or arc flash boundary, whichever is greater, of the electrical systems (see Chapter 8 for guidance on determining these boundaries).

Equipment

PIVs must be designed and manufactured in accordance with applicable standards (ASME B56.1-2004) and marked, stored, and maintained following the requirements of this chapter.

Inspection

Only PIVs that pass a pre-use safety inspection and meet applicable requirements are permitted to be operated at SLAC. The inspection must be conducted by an operator and documented on a PIV: Pre-use Inspection Checklist [pdf], which must be returned with the device to the PIV custodian. If a PIV does not pass this pre-use inspection, the operator must tag it Danger - Do Not Operate, remove it immediately from service, and contact the custodian.

Storage

Unattended PIVs will be parked away from high traffic areas and effectively barricaded where necessary. The fork tines will be lowered with tips on the floor or ground. The keys must not be left in parked PIVs.

Maintenance

PIV custodians will establish and follow a program of regular maintenance to ensure that PIVs remain in a safe operating condition. The custodian will ensure maintenance records are kept and made available for inspection upon request.

Only authorized personnel, that is, employees of SLAC Fleet Services or a third-party approved by it, will be permitted to maintain or repair PIVs.

Marking

Each PIV will have a conspicuously displayed, legible plate or other legible marking verifying that it is designed and manufactured in accordance with applicable standards. At a minimum, the marking should contain the following data, when applicable:

1. Make, model, and manufacturer’s serial number
2. Rated capacity
3. Caution or restriction of operation or both

Modifications

No modifications or additions to PIVs will be performed without written authorization from the manufacturer.

Extensions

Manufacturer-approved fork extensions are only appropriate for specific tasks. The use of non-factory installed extensions requires the approval of the manufacturer. A rated load test will be documented and conducted every two years, and will be marked with the date of the last inspection. (See Chapter 41, “Hoisting and Rigging”, for lifting devices and inspection criteria.)

Extensions must be inspected prior to use for

• Bending
• Overloading
• Excess corrosion
• Cracking
• Other deterioration

Battery-charging Stations

Battery-charging stations for use with PIVs will meet the requirements of Cal/OSHA.

Non-SLAC Equipment

Prior to bringing a leased or rented PIV onto SLAC property, the PIV custodian will verify that the vehicle meets the minimum requirements of this program.

Personnel

Operators

Operators must be properly trained, qualified, and licensed (refer to Training Section) in order to use a PIV.

While operating a PIV, operators will carry proof of authorization and operator training, such as an operator’s wallet card from an approved PIV training course (either SLAC or outside).

Custodians

Custodians of PIVs must be trained at a minimum to the level of a qualified operator.

Spotters

Safety spotters are required during the use of PIVs when the operator’s view is obstructed by the load or when operating in an occupied area. A safety spotter may be a co-worker located on the work platform or on the ground depending on the area to be observed during movement. In many cases the spotter can be a productive worker who can be called on to observe during vertical or horizontal movement and need not be an additional person with the sole purpose of spotting.