DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS  
DIRECTOR'S OFFICE  
GENERAL INDUSTRY SAFETY STANDARDS  
(By authority conferred on the director of the department of licensing and regulatory affairs  
by sections 16 and 21 of 1974 PA 154, MCL 408.1016 and 408.1021, and Executive  
Reorganization Order Nos. 1996-2, 2003-1, 2008-4, and 2011-4, MCL 445.2001,  
445.2011, 445.2025, and 445.2030)  
GENERAL INDUSTRY SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARD  
PART 21. POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCKS  
R 408.12101 Scope.  
Rule 2101. The purpose of these rules is to provide, in or about places of employment,  
minimum safety rules for the care and use of powered industrial trucks and to provide for  
operator safety and specifications of equipment.  
History: 1979 AC; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12102 Rescinded.  
History: 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12103 Definitions; A to C.  
Rule 2103. (1) "Attachment" means a device, other than conventional forks or load  
backrest extension, mounted permanently or removed on the elevating mechanism of a  
truck for handling the load. Popular attachments are fork extensions, clamps, rotating  
devices, side shifters, load stabilizers, rams, and booms.  
(2) "Cantilever truck" means a self-loading counter-balanced or non-counterbalanced  
truck equipped with cantilever load engaging means. (Appendix A. Figure 1)  
(3) "Capacity" when referring to trucks, means the following:  
(a) The capacity of a truck equipped with a load carriage and forks, or with attachments,  
is the maximum weight in pounds, at a specified load center which the truck, based on the  
strength of its various components and applicable stability, can lift to the maximum  
elevation of the load engaging means. Alternate capacities may be established at the same  
specified load center and at less than maximum elevation of the load engaging means.  
(b) The capacity of a truck equipped with a platform is the maximum weight in pounds,  
at a specified load center which the truck, based on the strength of its various components,  
can lift to the maximum elevation of the load engaging means.  
(4) "Carriage" means a support structure for forks or attachment, generally roller mounted,  
traveling vertically within the mast of a cantilever truck.  
Page 1  
(5) "Center-control truck" means a truck in which the operator's control position is located  
near the longitudinal center of the truck.  
(6) "Counterbalanced truck" means a truck equipped with load engaging means wherein  
all the load during normal transporting is external to the polygon formed by the wheel  
contacts. (Appendix A, Figure 1.)  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12104 Rescinded  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12105 Definitions; D to F.  
Rule 2105. (1) "Drift" means to move without control.  
(2) "Electric truck" means a truck in which the principal energy is transmitted to motors  
in the form of electricity from a power source such as, but not limited to, a battery or motor  
generator.  
(3) "End-control truck" means a truck in which the operator's position is located at the  
end opposite the load.  
(4) "Fixed platform truck" means a truck equipped with a load platform which is non-  
elevating.  
(5) "Forks" means horizontal tine-like projections, normally suspended from the carriage,  
for engaging and supporting loads.  
(6) "Fork height" means the vertical distance from the floor to the load carrying surface  
adjacent to the heel of the forks with mast vertical, and in the case of a reach truck, with  
the forks extended.  
(7) "Fork-lift truck" means a light-lift self-loading truck equipped with load carriage and  
forks for transporting and tiering loads.  
(8) "Free play" means an uncontrolled movement.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12106 Definitions; H to I.  
Rule 2106. (1) "High-lift truck" means a self-loading truck equipped with an elevating  
mechanism designed to permit tiering. Popular types are high-lift fork trucks, high-lift ram  
trucks, high-lift boom trucks, high-lift clamp trucks, and high-lift platform trucks.  
(Appendix A, Figure 1.)  
(2) "High-lift platform truck" means a self-loading truck equipped with a load platform,  
intended primarily for transporting and tiering loaded skid platforms. (Appendix A, Figure  
2.)  
(3) "Industrial crane truck" means a truck intended primarily for pick and carry use in  
warehousing, yarding, or industrial plant operation over improved or hard surfaced roads  
and yards, including maintenance within these areas.  
Page 2  
(4) "Industrial tractor" means a truck designed primarily to draw 1 or more non-powered  
trucks, trailers, or other mobile loads. (Appendix A, Figure 5.)  
(5) "Internal combustion engine truck" means a truck in which the power source is a gas,  
LP gas, gasoline, or diesel type engine.  
(6) "Issuing authority" means an employer or his or her designated representative who  
instructed and trained the operator.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12107 Definitions; L.  
Rule 2107. (1) "Liquefied petroleum gas (LP gas)" means a fuel that is composed  
predominantly of any of the following hydrocarbons, or mixtures of them: propane,  
propylene, butanes (normal butane or iso-butane), and butylenes.  
(2) "Load-axle" means the truck axle nearest the load.  
(3) "Load backrest extension" means a device extending vertically from the fork carriage  
frame.  
(4) "Load center" means the horizontal longitudinal distance from the intersection of the  
horizontal load-carrying surfaces and vertical load-engaging faces of the forks, or  
equivalent load positioning structure, to the center of gravity of the load.  
(5) "Load engaging means" means a load handling device attached to a powered industrial  
truck for the purpose of handling a load.  
(6) "Low-lift truck" means a self-loading truck equipped with an elevating mechanism  
designed to raise the load sufficiently to permit horizontal movement. Popular types are  
low-lift platform trucks and pallet trucks. (Appendix A, Figure 3).  
(7) "Low-lift platform truck" means a self-loading truck equipped with a load platform  
intended primarily for transporting loaded skid platforms. (Appendix A, Figure 3).  
History: 1979 AC; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12108 Definitions; M, N.  
Rule 2108. (1) "Mast" means a support member providing the guideways permitting  
vertical movement of the carriage. It is usually constructed in the form of channels or  
similar sections providing the supporting pathway for the carriage rollers.  
(2) "Motorized hand truck" means a truck designed to be controlled by a walking operator  
and used to lift, tow, carry, stock, and tier materials. (Appendix A, Figure 4).  
(3) "Motorized hand or rider truck" means a dual purpose truck designed to be controlled  
by a walking operator or by a riding operator. (Appendix A, Figure 6).  
(4) "Narrow aisle truck" means a self-loading truck primarily intended for right angle  
stacking in aisles narrower than those normally required by counterbalanced trucks of the  
same capacity. (Appendix A, Figure 10).  
(5) "Non-elevating truck" means a non-counterbalanced truck designed primarily for  
burden-carrying and not capable of self-loading.  
History: 1979 AC; 2016 AACS.  
Page 3  
R 408.12109 Definitions; O, P.  
Rule 2109. (1) "Operator" means an employee who has been trained, tested, and  
authorized by the present employer to operate a powered industrial truck.  
(2) "Order picker truck, high-lift" means a high-lift truck controlled by the operator  
stationed on a platform movable with the load engaging means and intended for manual  
stock selection. The truck may be capable of self-loading or tiering or both. (Appendix A,  
Figure 9).  
(3) "Overhead guard" means a framework fitted to a truck over the head of a riding  
operator.  
(4) "Overall lowered mast height" means the maximum vertical dimension from the  
ground or floor to the extreme top point of the mast with the fork carriage in the fully  
lowered position and unloaded.  
(5) "Pallet truck" means a self-loading low-lift truck equipped with wheeled forks of  
dimensions to go under a single faced pallet or between the top and bottom boards of a  
double faced pallet and having wheels capable of lowering into spaces between the bottom  
boards so as to raise the pallet off the floor for transportation. (Appendix A, Figure 4).  
(6) "Parking brake" means a device to prevent the movement of a stationary truck.  
(7) "Powered industrial truck" or "truck" means a mobile, power driven vehicle used to  
carry, push, pull, lift, stack, or tier material.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12110 Definitions; R to U.  
Rule 2110. (1) "Reach truck" means a self-loading truck, generally high-lift, having load  
engaging means mounted so the means can be extended forwardly under control to permit  
a load to be picked up and deposited in the extended position and transported in the  
retracted position. (Appendix A, Figure 7.)  
(2) "Rough terrain forklift truck" means a wheeled-type truck which is designed primarily  
as a fork truck that has a vertical mast or pivoted boom, or both, which has variable fixed  
length reach and which may be equipped with attachments and that is intended for  
operation on unimproved natural terrain as well as the disturbed terrain of construction  
sites. A machine that is designed primarily for earth-moving, such as a loader or dozer,  
even though its buckets and blades are replaced with forks or a machine that is designed  
primarily as an over-the-road truck that has a lifting device, is not a rough terrain forklift  
truck.  
(3) "Self-loading" means the capability of a truck to pick up, carry, set down and, in the  
case of high-lift types to stack or tier its load without the aid of external means.  
(4) "Service brake" means a device designed to bring a moving truck to a halt.  
(5) "Side loader" means a self-loading truck, generally high-lift, having load engaging  
means mounted in such a manner that the means can be extended laterally under control to  
permit a load to be picked up and deposited in the extended position and transported in the  
retracted position. (Appendix A, Figure 8.)  
(6) "Straddle truck" means a general class of cantilever truck with horizontal structural  
wheel supported members extending forward from the main body of the truck, generally  
Page 4  
high-lift, for picking up and hauling loads between its outrigger arms. (Appendix A, Figure  
10.)  
(7) "Tire" means a tire which may be standard solid, cushion solid, pneumatic or solid  
pneumatic style.  
(8) "Tiering" means a process of placing a load on or above another load.  
(9) "Unattended truck" means a truck which is beyond the vision or more than 25 feet  
from the operator, whichever is less.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12111 Adopted and referenced standards.  
Rule 2111. (1) The following standards are adopted by reference in these rules and are  
available from IHS Global, 15 Inverness Way East, Englewood, Colorado, 80112, USA,  
telephone number: 1-800-854-7179 or via the internet at website: http://global.ihs.com; at  
a cost as of the time of adoption of these rules, as stated in these rules.  
(2) A powered industrial truck manufactured after January 15, 1971, but before 1993,  
shall be certified by the manufacturer that the truck covered by this part has been produced  
according to the mandatory requirements of sections 3 and 4, except subsection 421 of  
section 4, of the American National Standards Institute Standard ANSI standard B56.1  
“Safety Standards For Powered Industrial Trucks,” 1969 edition. Cost: $60.00.  
(3) A low lift or high lift truck manufactured after April 26, 2000 shall be in compliance  
with the requirements of ANSI standard B56.1 “Safety Standard For Low Lift And High  
Lift Trucks,” 1993 edition, except as noted in subrule(1) of this rule. Cost: $61.00.  
(4) A rough terrain fork lift truck manufactured after April 26, 2000 shall be in compliance  
with the requirements of ANSI standard B56.1 “Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks,” 1993  
edition. Cost: $68.00.  
(5) A industrial crane truck manufactured after April 26, 2000 shall be in compliance with  
ANSI standard B56.7 “Safety Standard For Industrial Crane Trucks,” 1987 edition. Cost:  
$60.00.  
(6) A tow tractor manufactured after April 26, 2000 shall be in compliance with ANSI  
standard B56.92 “Operator Controlled Industrial Tow Tractors,” 1992 edition. Cost:  
$56.00.  
(7) A manually propelled high lift industrial truck manufactured after April 26, 2000 shall  
be in compliance with ANSI standard B56.10 “Manually Propelled High Lift Industrial  
Trucks,” 1992 edition. Cost: $105.00.  
(8) National Fire Protection Agency Standard NFPA 505 “Fire Safety Standard for  
Powered Industrial Trucks Including Type Designations, Areas of Use, Conversions,  
Maintenance, and Operations,” 1996 edition. Cost: $27.00.  
(9) The standards adopted in these rules are available for inspection at the Department of  
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, MIOSHA Regulatory Services Section, 530 West  
Allegan Street, P.O. Box 30643, Lansing, Michigan, 48909-8143.  
(10) The standards adopted in these rules may be obtained from the publisher or may be  
obtained from the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, MIOSHA Regulatory  
Services Section, 530 West Allegan Street, P.O. Box 30643, Lansing, Michigan,  
48909-8143, plus $20.00 for shipping and handling.  
Page 5  
(11) The following Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA)  
standards are referenced in these rules. Up to 5 copies of these standards may be obtained  
at no charge from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs,  
MIOSHA Regulatory Services Section, 530 West Allegan Street, P. O. Box 30643,  
Lansing,  
Michigan,  
48909-8143  
or  
via  
the  
internet  
at  
website:  
www.michigan.gov/mioshastandards. For quantities greater than 5, the cost, at the time of  
adoption of these rules, is 4 cents per page.  
(a) General Industry Safety and Health Standard Part 1 “General Provisions,”  
R 408.10001 to R 408.10098.  
(b) General Industry Safety and Health Standard Part 2 “Walking-Working Surfaces,”  
R 408.10201 to R 408.10241.  
(c) General Industry Safety and Health Standard Part 33 “Personal Protective Equipment”  
R 408.13301 to R 408.13398.  
(d) General Industry Safety Standard Part 56 “Storage and Handling of Liquefied  
Petroleum Gases,” R 408.15601 to R 408.15601.  
(e) General Industry Safety Standard Part 75 “Flammable Liquids,” R 408.17501 to  
R 408.17502.  
(f) General Industry Safety Standard Part 92 “Hazard Communication,” R 408.19201 to  
R 408.19204.  
(g) Occupational Health Standard Part 433 “Personal Protective Equipment,”  
R 325.60001 to R 325.60013.  
(h) Occupational Health Standard Part 472 “Medical Services and First Aid,”  
R 325.47201 to R 325.47201.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2013 AACS; 2016 AACS; 2018 AACS.  
NAMEPLATES AND MARKINGS  
R 408.12121 Rescinded.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12122 Approved labels.  
Rule 2122. (1) A powered industrial truck which has been accepted by an approved testing  
laboratory shall bear a label or marking indicating such acceptance.  
(2) A nameplate, label or tag provided on such a truck shall be maintained in place and  
in legible condition.  
History: 1979 AC.  
Editor's note: Former R 408.12122, deriving from 1954 ACS 66, was rescinded by 1954 ACS 73, Eff. Nov.  
10, 1972; 1979 AC.  
Page 6  
R 408.12123 -- R 408.12129 Rescinded.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12130 Rescinded.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
EQUIPMENT  
R 408.12131 Warning devices and lights.  
Rule 2131. (1) A truck, except a motorized hand truck, shall be equipped with an audible  
device to warn of approach.  
(2) A truck used in areas where general lighting is less than 2 foot-candles shall be  
equipped with auxiliary lights that illuminate work in process.  
History: 1979 AC; 2018 AACS.  
R 408.12132 Modifications.  
Rule 2132. (1) An employer shall not install an additional counterweight without written  
assurance from the manufacturer of the truck that the truck will meet the stability  
requirements of ANSI standard B56.1 “Safety Standard for Low Lift and High Lift Trucks"  
1993 edition, as adopted in R 408.12111.  
(2) An employer shall not make other modifications affecting capacity or safety without  
written approval of the manufacturer or an engineer knowledgeable on the subject.  
Capacity, operation, and maintenance instruction plates, tags, or decals shall be changed  
accordingly.  
(3) If the truck is equipped with front end attachments, the name plate shall be marked to  
show all of the following:  
(a) Identification of the attachments.  
(b) The approximate weight of the truck and attachment.  
(c) The load capacity of the truck and attachment combination at maximum elevation of  
the load engaging means with load laterally centered.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12133 Rescinded.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12134 Parking brakes; tires.  
Page 7  
Rule 2134. (1) The parking brake on a sit-down rider truck shall be capable of holding  
the truck on the maximum grade which the truck can negotiate with rated load, or on a 15%  
grade, whichever is lesser. The parking brake shall be manually or automatically applied  
and shall remain applied until released by the operator.  
(2) Tires shall be used as recommended by the truck manufacturer.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12135 Rescinded.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12136. Operator platforms.  
Rule 2136. (1) An end control, reach, narrow aisle, order picker high-lift, order picking  
and stacking, and motorized hand rider truck shall be equipped with a platform extended  
beyond the operator's position, and shall withstand a compression load equal to the weight  
of the loaded vehicle applied along the longitudinal axis of the truck with the outermost  
projection of the platform against a flat vertical surface. The back protective guard where  
provided shall permit rapid and unobstructed ingress or egress from the platform.  
(2) On a double end control baggage type truck or a truck that may be transported on short  
elevators, means shall be provided to prevent accidental folding of the operator's folding  
platform.  
(3) All of the following apply to an order picker truck, high-lift:  
(a) A removable operator platform shall be provided with a device that attaches the  
platform to the lifting means.  
(b) The operator platform shall be equipped with side guard rails.  
(c) When the platform is elevated, the horizontal travel speed of the truck shall be  
automatically reduced to a degree necessary to maintain stability under maximum braking  
load and turning.  
(d) Subdivisions (a) and (c) of this subrule pertain only to a truck manufactured after the  
effective date of January 15, 1971.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12137 Steering control.  
Rule 2137. (1) An employer shall assure that, except on a motorized hand and motorized  
hand or rider truck, the steering control of a powered industrial truck is contained within  
the outlines of the planes of the truck, or guarded to prevent injury to the operator during  
movement of the controls when passing an obstacle such as a wall, post, equipment, box,  
or other truck.  
(2) An employer shall assure that on a motorized hand and motorized hand or rider truck,  
the steering handle is provided with a guard or device to protect the operator's hands from  
injury when passing an obstacle such as a wall, post, equipment, box, or another truck.  
Page 8  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12138. Load handling controls, general.  
Rule 2138. All of the following apply to a load handling control on a truck:  
(a) Is preferably located for right hand operation.  
(b) Is a single lever used to perform more than one function. Push button or pre-selected  
controls shall be properly identified.  
(c) Is clearly and durably identified to indicate function and direction of motion of load  
or equipment.  
(d) Is self-centering.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12139 Load handling controls; direction of motion and guards.  
Rule 2139. (1) A lever or handle type control, including a toggle switch, shall be in  
accordance with Table 1 “Direction of Motion.”  
(2) Moving parts that represent a hazard from the operator's position shall be protected by  
suitable guards.  
Page 9  
TABLE 1  
DIRECTION OF MOTION  
Of the Operator’s Hand When Actuating  
Of Load Or  
Equipment  
Function  
Hoist  
The Control Handle While Facing  
The Load  
up  
rearward or up  
down  
forward  
extend  
release  
left  
forward or down  
forward or down  
forward  
rearward  
retract  
*rearward or up  
*rearward  
Tilt  
Reach  
clamp  
rearward or up  
rearward or up  
rearward or up  
*rearward or up  
Clamp  
forward or down  
forward or down  
forward or down  
forward or down  
right  
Side Shift  
Rotate Laterally  
clockwise  
counterclockwise  
rearward  
Rotate  
Longitudinally  
forward  
*The sense of rotation of the control handle is intended to be in the same direction as the  
desired motion of the mast or load.  
History: 1979 AC; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12141 Rescinded.  
History: 1954 ACS 66, Eff. Jan. 15, 1971; rescinded 1954 ACS 73, Eff. Nov. 10, 1972.  
Page 10  
R 408.12143 Overhead guard on high-lift truck.  
Rule 2143. (1) Except as provided in subrule (2) of this rule, a high-lift truck shall be  
fitted with an overhead guard. The overhead guard shall be capable of supporting a  
uniformly distributed static load in accordance with the following table. The overhead  
guard is not intended to withstand the impact of a falling capacity load.  
(2) Table 2 “Overhead Guard Test” reads as follows:  
TABLE 2  
OVERHEAD GUARD TEST  
Truck Capacity Rating  
Static Test Load as a% of Truck capacity Rating  
(in pounds)  
Through 5,000  
200% of truck rating  
10,000 pounds  
plus 100% of increment rating over 5,000 pounds  
Over 5,000 through 10, 000  
Over 10,000 through 20,000  
15,000 pounds  
plus 50% increment rating over 10,000 pounds  
(3) An overhead guard may be omitted from a high-lift truck if the truck is never used to  
lift or raise material or objects more than 72 inches measured from the floor to the forks  
and if all of the following are complied with:  
(a) The load is limited to a single rack or pallet.  
(b) The truck is not operated in an area where material or objects are stacked above the  
operator's head.  
(c) A sign with lettering not less than 1/2-inch high is securely attached in the area of the  
operator's controls stating, "This truck shall not be used to lift materials above the operator's  
head or in an area where materials are stacked above the operator's head."  
(4) A low-lift rider truck which is used to lift material stacked higher than the head of the  
operator, and which would likely vibrate and fall back onto the operator, shall be provided  
with an overhead guard.  
(5) The overhead guard shall be capable of withstanding the impact of a 100-pound solid  
hardwood cube, or equivalent, dropped a distance of 5 feet 10 times, without failure or  
without permanent deflection exceeding 3/4 inch.  
(6) The overhead guard shall be constructed in a manner that does not interfere with  
visibility. Openings in the top shall not exceed 6 inches in 1 of the 2 dimensions, width or  
length. The guard shall be large enough to extend over the operator under all normal  
circumstances of truck operation, including forward tilt.  
(7) A fork truck equipped with a single-tilt cylinder shall be made to avoid injury to the  
operator by the overhead guard resulting from failure of this cylinder or associated parts.  
Page 11  
(8) On a truck where the operator is seated, a vertical clearance of not less than 39 inches  
should be maintained from the point of maximum depression of the seat under the operator  
to the underside of the section of the overhead guard under which the operator's head moves  
during normal operation.  
(9) On a powered industrial truck where the operator stands on a platform, a vertical  
clearance of not less than 74 inches should be maintained from the platform to the  
underside of the section of the overhead guard under which the operator's head moves  
during normal operation.  
(10) Where head room conditions limit the overall lowered height of the truck, a normal  
overhead guard height may be reduced.  
(11) An overhead guard is intended to offer protection from the impact of small packages,  
boxes, and bagged material representative of the job application, but not to withstand the  
impact of a falling capacity load.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITIES  
R 408.12151. Operator selection.  
Rule 2151. An employer shall be able to demonstrate that an employee is trained and  
qualified to operate a powered industrial truck prior to authorizing the employee to operate  
a powered industrial truck.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS; 2013 AACS.  
R 408.12152 Training.  
Rule 2152. (1) An employer shall provide training to the employee before the employee's  
assignment as an operator of a powered industrial truck. Instruction shall include all of the  
following:  
(a) Capacities of the equipment and attachments.  
(b) Purpose, use, and limitations of controls.  
(c) How to make daily checks.  
(d) Practice and operating assigned vehicles through the mechanical functions necessary  
to perform the required job.  
(e) The requirements contained in R 408.12171 to R 408.12193.  
(f) Hazards associated with exhaust gases produced by fossil fuel powered industrial  
trucks such as carbon monoxide, or components of diesel exhaust, and hazards associated  
with the handling of electrolyte chemicals used for battery operated trucks such as  
sulphuric acid, shall be provided in accordance with General Industry Safety Standard Part  
92 “Hazard Communication,” as referenced in R 408.12111.  
(2) Training shall consist of a combination of formal instruction such as lecture,  
discussion, interactive computer learning, videotape, written material, practical training,  
and testing of the operator's performance in the workplace as required in R 408.12153.  
Page 12  
(3) An employer shall provide refresher training in relevant topics to an operator under  
any of the following conditions:  
(a) An operator has been observed to operate the vehicle in an unsafe manner.  
(b) An operator has been involved in an accident or a near-miss incident.  
(c) An operator has received an evaluation that reveals that the operator is not operating  
the truck safely.  
(d) An operator is assigned to a different type of truck.  
(e) A condition in the workplace changes that could affect safe operation of the truck.  
(4) An evaluation of each operator's performance shall be conducted before renewal of a  
truck operator permit. An individual who is authorized by the employer and who has the  
knowledge, training, and experience to train and evaluate the competence of the operator  
shall provide training and evaluation.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
Editor's Note: An obvious error in R 408.12152 was corrected at the request of the promulgating agency,  
pursuant to Section 56 of 1969 PA 306, as amended by 2000 PA 262, MCL 24.256. The rule containing the  
error was published in Annual Administrative Code Supplement, 2016. The memorandum requesting the  
correction was published in Michigan Register, 2017 MR 6.  
R 408.12153 Testing.  
Rule 2153. (1) An employer shall test an employee before authorizing the employee to  
operate a powered industrial truck, except a motorized hand truck. The test shall check  
the employees on the following:  
(a) Operating ability.  
(b) Knowledge of the equipment.  
(c) Knowledge of the requirements contained in R 408.12171 to R 408.12193.  
(d) Knowledge of daily checks.  
(2) An employer shall provide for a performance test to determine whether the  
employee can operate the assigned powered industrial truck through the functions  
necessary to perform the required work.  
(3) An employee who has a valid permit to operate a powered industrial truck issued by  
another employer may be tested as prescribed in this rule without meeting the training  
requirements of R 408.12152.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12154. Permits.  
Rule 2154. (1) An employer shall provide the employee with a permit to operate a  
powered industrial truck only after meeting the requirements prescribed in R 408.12151,  
R 408.12152, and R 408.12153. A permit is optional for operators of motorized hand low  
lift trucks.  
(2) An employee being trained is exempt from the permit requirement of subrule (1) of  
this rule for a period of not more than 30 days, provided the employee is under the  
supervision of an individual who is authorized by the employer and who has the  
Page 13  
knowledge, training, and experience to train operators and to evaluate their competence,  
and that the training period does not endanger the trainee or other employees.  
(3) A permit shall be carried by the operator or be available upon request by a department  
representative at all times during working hours.  
(4) A permit shall indicate the type of truck an operator has been trained on and is  
qualified to operate.  
(5) A permit to operate a powered industrial truck is valid only with the employer who  
issued the permit, and the permit shall be issued for a period of not more than 3 years. An  
employee may continue to operate a powered industrial truck if the employee's handicaps  
or inabilities do not prove detrimental to his or her task.  
(6) A permit shall contain all of the following information (see sample permit):  
(a) Firm name.  
(b) Operator's name.  
(c) Operator I.D. number, if any.  
(d) Name of issuing authority.  
(e) Type of truck authorized to operate.  
(f) Operator restrictions, if any. The permit shall state the nature of the restriction.  
(g) Date issued.  
(h) Date expiring.  
(7) A sample permit is set forth as follows:  
Page 14  
SAMPLE PERMIT  
INDUSTRIAL TRUCK OPERATOR PERMIT  
(Insert Firm Name)  
Operator's Name:_____________________________________________________________  
Operator's Number:___________________________________________________________  
Is Authorized To Operate:______________________________________________________  
(Insert Type of Truck(s) Authorized)  
Restrictions:_________________________________________________________________  
(Explanation of Restrictions)  
Date Issued:_________________________________________________________________  
(Month – Day – Year)  
Date Expiring:_______________________________________________________________  
(Month – Day – Year)  
By Issuing Authority: _________________________________________________________  
Title  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12155 Restriction of use.  
Rule 2155. A powered industrial truck used in an environment containing the following  
substances shall be equipped as prescribed in NFPA standard 505 “Fire Safety Standard  
for Powered Industrial Trucks Including Type Designations, Areas of Use, Conversions,  
Maintenance, and Operations,” 1996 edition, as adopted in R 408.12111.  
(a) Gases or vapors, such as, but not limited to, acetylene, hydrogen, oxygen, ether,  
gasoline, naphtha, or acetone, which may be present in quantities sufficient to produce an  
explosive or ignitable mixture.  
(b) Combustible mixtures of dusts such as, but not limited to, metal dust, coal dust, coke  
dust, grain dust, flour dust, or organic dust.  
(c) Ignitable fibres such as, but not limited to, baled waste, cocoa fibre, cotton, excelsior,  
kapok, or oakum.  
Page 15  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2013 AACS; 2016 AACS; 2018 AACS.  
R 408.12161 Mechanical condition and maintenance.  
Rule 2161. (1) An employer shall not permit a powered industrial truck to be used if:  
(a) The service and parking brakes do not perform their intended function.  
(b) The fuel system leaks.  
(c) A lift cylinder of a load engaging means allows a downward drift of the load engaging  
means loaded or unloaded in excess of 5 inches in 5 minutes.  
(d) A tilt cylinder of a mast allows a forward drift of the mast in excess of 2 degrees in 5  
minutes with the mast in a vertical position and a capacity load on the fork or load engaging  
means.  
(e) The steering mechanism allows free play of the steering wheel of more than 1/4 turn  
on trucks capable of speeds up to 8 miles per hour and more than 1/8 turn on trucks capable  
of speeds over 8 miles per hour.  
(f) A hydraulic system leaks and creates a hazard for an employee and equipment in the  
area.  
(2) Repairs to a fuel and ignition system which involve a fire hazard shall be made only  
in a designated location. Repairs shall not be made in a location made hazardous by:  
(a) Flammable gases or vapors.  
(b) Combustible dusts.  
(c) Ignitable fibers.  
(3) Repairs to the truck electrical system shall be made only after the battery has been  
disconnected.  
(4) A replacement part shall have not less than the equivalent safety of the original part.  
(5) A water muffler shall have the water maintained at not less than 75% of capacity. A  
water muffler equipped with a screen shall have the screen maintained to accomplish its  
intended purpose. When an exhaust system of this type emits sparks or flames, the truck  
shall be removed from service and repaired.  
(6) A truck running in excess of normal operating temperature which creates a hazardous  
condition shall be removed from service and repaired.  
(7) A truck shall be maintained in a condition reasonably free of lint, excess oil, and  
grease. Solvent with a flash point of less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit shall not be used to  
clean the truck. Precautions regarding ventilation, fire, and toxicity shall be observed when  
using a cleaning agent.  
(8) A truck approved for use of 1 type of fuel may be converted to another type of fuel if  
the conversion qualifies the truck to its new designation, such as GS, LP, or LPS. Only  
approved parts shall be used.  
The conversion shall be as prescribed in R 408.12132(2).  
(9) All repairs shall be made by authorized personnel.  
History: 1979 AC; 1980 AACS.  
R 408.12162 Blocks and safety stands for maintenance.  
Rule 2162. (1) An employer shall provide the following:  
Page 16  
(a) Chock blocks, support blocks, or jack stands for the maintenance department's use  
when repairing powered industrial trucks or their components.  
(b) Blocks or safety stands as a means of support for powered industrial trucks elevated  
from the floor by a hoist or chain fall.  
(2) When repairing a powered industrial truck, an employee shall use chock blocks,  
support blocks, or jack stands if there is a hazard from movement.  
(3) An employee shall not place his or her body under a powered industrial truck unless  
the powered industrial truck is supported by properly arranged blocks or jack stands  
capable, in total, of supporting a minimum of 1 1/2 times the weight of the component of  
the truck to be repaired.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS.  
R 408.12163 Fuel.  
Rule 2163. (1) An employer shall provide safety fuel cans where trucks are refueled with  
gasoline at other than a gas pump area.  
(2) An employer shall provide a special area for refueling that is not less than 25 feet from  
a source of open flame or spark and the area shall be posted to this effect.  
(3) Use and storage of LP gas shall be as specified by General Industry Safety Standard  
Part 56 “Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases,” as referenced in  
R 408.12111.  
(4) Handling and storage of fuel, such as gasoline and diesel fuel, shall be as prescribed  
in General Industry Safety Standard Part 75 “Flammable and Combustible Liquids,” as  
referenced in R 408.12111.  
(5) Smoking while refueling is prohibited.  
(6) Fuel level shall not be checked by use of an open flame.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS; 2013 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12164 Electric trucks.  
Rule 2164. (1) Where electric trucks are used, an employer shall provide a designated  
area for battery changing, charging, or both, which shall be performed by a trained and  
authorized employee.  
(2) An employer shall ensure that provisions are made in a battery charging area where  
batteries are removed from the truck for flushing and neutralization of spillage, for fire  
protection, and for air movement sufficient to disperse fumes from gassing batteries.  
(3) Smoking and other sources of ignition is prohibited in these areas.  
(4) An employer shall assure that an employee is trained to position the truck and apply  
the brake before changing or charging a battery and to position and secure a reinstalled  
battery before releasing the truck for use.  
(5) Material handling equipment, such as, but not limited to, a conveyor or overhead hoist,  
shall be used for removing and replacing a battery. A spreader bar or an equivalent device  
shall be used with any overhead battery hoist so that the lifting stresses are vertical. A chain  
type powered battery hoist shall have a container to accumulate the excess lifting chain.  
When a hand hoist is used, an uncovered battery shall be covered to prevent the hand chain  
Page 17  
from shorting on cell connectors or terminals. Tools and other metallic objects shall be kept  
away from the terminals.  
(6) When mixing electrolyte for a battery, an employer shall ensure the use of a carboy  
tilter or siphon for handling electrolyte. Acid concentrate shall be poured into water. Water  
shall not be poured into acid concentrate.  
(7) The following apply to charging a battery:  
(a) The vent cap shall be kept in place and functioning.  
(b) The battery or compartment covers where provided shall be kept open to dissipate heat  
and gases.  
(8) The electrolyte level shall not be checked with an open flame.  
(9) Where there is a potential for employee exposure to injurious corrosive electrolyte  
solutions, for example sulfuric acid, associated with battery powered industrial trucks, the  
employer shall provide both of the following:  
(a) Personal protective equipment in accordance with General Industry Safety and Health  
Standard Part 33 “Personal Protective Equipment” and Occupational Health Standard Part  
433 “Personal Protective Equipment,” as referenced in R 408.12111.  
(b) Suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of eyes and body within the work  
area for immediate emergency use in accordance with Occupational Health Standard Part  
472 “Medical Services and First Aid,” as referenced in R 408.12111.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS; 2018 AACS.  
R 408.12165 Dockboards and plates.  
Rule 2165. (1) The carrying capacity shall be marked on a dockboard or plate purchased  
after April 17, 1979.  
(2) Where a fork truck is used, fork loops, pockets, or lugs shall be provided for safe  
handling.  
(3) A dockboard or plate shall have a slip-resistant surface, such as, but not limited to, a  
tread plate, designed to reduce the possibility of slipping by an employee or truck.  
(4) For dockboards, see General Industry Safety and Health Standard Part 2  
“Walking-Working Surfaces,” as referenced in R 408.12111, for additional requirements.  
History: 1979 AC; 2016 AACS; 2018 AACS.  
R 408.12166 Order picker trucks; high-lift platforms.  
Rule 2166. Whenever an order picker truck, high-lift is equipped with vertical only or  
vertical and horizontal controls traveling with the lifting carriage or forks for lifting an  
employee, an employer shall assure that the following is provided:  
(a) A platform equipped with railing or other limiting device, including but not limited to  
a chain, strap or tether.  
(b) A control device whereby the employee on the platform can shut off the power to the  
truck.  
(c) Protection from falling objects as indicated necessary by the operating conditions.  
History: 1979 AC.  
Page 18  
R 408.12167 Fork lift truck platforms.  
Rule 2167. (1) An employee shall not be lifted or transported, except when a platform is  
attached to the forks by enclosed sleeves, a safety chain, or a mechanical device in such a  
manner that the platform cannot tip or slip.  
(2) A platform shall be equipped with a railing not less than 36 inches or more than 42  
inches high and a toeboard. The railing shall consist of 1 of the following materials:  
(a) Wood posts of at least 2 x 4 inch nominal stock; the top rail shall be made of 2 right  
angle pieces of not less than 1 x 4 inch nominal stock and an intermediate rail of 1 x 4 inch  
nominal stock.  
(b) Steel or aluminum pipe posts and rails of not less than 1 inch inside diameter and an  
intermediate rail of 3/4 inch inside diameter pipe.  
(c) Structural steel or aluminum posts, rails and intermediate rail of angle iron of not less  
than 1 x 1 x 3/16 inch size or other shapes of equal strength.  
(3) The intermediate rail may be omitted from 1 side.  
(4) A toeboard shall be made of not less than 1 x 4 inches nominal wood stock or a material  
of equal strength.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12168 Load backrest extensions.  
Rule 2168. A load backrest extension, manufactured in accordance with R 408.12111,  
shall be used whenever necessary to minimize the possibility of a load, or part of it, falling  
rearward.  
History: 1979 AC.  
Editor's Note: An obvious error in R 408.12168 was corrected at the request of the promulgating agency,  
pursuant to Section 56 of 1969 PA 306, as amended by 2000 PA 262, MCL 24.256. The rule containing the  
error was published in Michigan Register, 1979 AC. The memorandum requesting the correction was  
published in Michigan Register, 2006 MR 4.  
R 408.12169 Spinner knobs.  
Rule 2169. A spinner knob shall not be attached to a steering hand-wheel of a truck unless  
originally equipped with such; the truck is equipped with power steering; or the truck is  
equipped with an anti-kickback device on the steering mechanism. The knob shall be  
installed within the periphery of the handwheel.  
History: 1979 AC; 2018 AACS.  
EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES  
Page 19  
R 408.12171. Daily checks.  
Rule 2171. (1) At the start of each shift, the operator of a powered industrial truck or a  
qualified employee shall perform daily checks of the equipment as required by the  
employer. See Appendix B for suggested inspection checklist.  
(2) An employer shall ensure that any defects that would affect the safe operation of the  
equipment are repaired before use.  
(3) An operator shall promptly report any defect on the powered industrial truck to the  
employer.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS.  
R 408.12172. General operating rules.  
Rule 2172. (1) An operator shall safeguard other employees at all times.  
(2) An operator shall not drive a truck up to anyone who is standing in front of a fixed  
object.  
(3) An operator shall not allow anyone to stand or pass under the elevated portion of any  
powered industrial truck, whether loaded or empty.  
(4) No employee, except the operator, shall ride on a powered industrial truck unless the  
truck is provided with a passenger seat. Passenger seats on a fork lift truck shall be under  
the overhead guard.  
History: 1979 AC; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12173. Position of arms and legs.  
Rule 2173. An employee shall not place his or her arms or legs in either of the following  
positions:  
(a) Between the uprights of the mast.  
(b) Outside the running lines of a moving truck.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS.  
R 408.12174 Parking.  
Rule 2174. (1) When leaving a powered industrial truck unattended, an operator shall  
fully lower the forks flat to the floor, neutralize the controls, set the brakes, and shut the  
power off.  
(2) Whenever it is necessary to leave a truck on an incline, the truck wheels shall be  
blocked and the steering wheels turned toward the curbing, wall or railing.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12175 Towing and pushing.  
Page 20  
Rule 2175. A truck shall not be used to tow or push railroad cars, unless it is specifically  
designed for that purpose. Freight car doors shall not be opened or closed by using a  
powered industrial truck, unless it is equipped with attachments designed for that purpose.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12176. Loading trucks, trailers, and railcars.  
Rule 2176. (1) An employer shall ensure that a highway truck and trailer are not boarded  
by a powered industrial truck before the highway truck and trailer has its brakes set and  
not less than 2 wheels blocked or be restrained by other mechanical means installed in a  
manner that will hold the trailer from movement.  
(2) An employer shall ensure that wheel stops, hand brakes, or other approved positive  
protection to prevent railroad cars from moving during loading or unloading operations are  
provided, and before and while dockboards or bridge-plates are in position.  
(3) An employer shall ensure that provisions are made to isolate rail cars during switching  
operations as required by General Industry Safety and Health Standard Part 1 “General  
Provisions,” as referenced in R 408.12111.  
(4) An employer shall ensure that the landing gear of all semi-trailers are visually  
inspected immediately before the trailer is uncoupled from the tractor to assure ability of  
the landing gear to support the imposed load.  
(5) A semitrailer less than 30 feet in length, when not coupled to a tractor and being loaded  
or unloaded with a powered industrial truck, shall be provided a support capable of  
sustaining the load at the front.  
(6) An employer shall ensure that the flooring of trucks, trailers, and railroad cars are  
checked for breaks and weakness before they are driven onto.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS; 2016 AACS; 2018 AACS.  
R 408.12177 Surveying path of travel.  
Rule 2177. Before moving or stacking, an operator shall survey the path of travel in order  
to avoid obstacles, such as, but not limited to, pipes, light fixtures, and sprinkler systems.  
A safe distance shall be maintained from the edge of ramps or platforms while on an  
elevated dock.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS.  
R 408.12178 Operations in hazardous areas.  
Rule 2178. When operating a powered industrial truck in a hazardous area, only a truck  
specifically equipped for such operation shall be used.  
See R 408.12155.  
History: 1979 AC.  
Page 21  
R 408.12179 Reporting accidents.  
Rule 2179. A powered industrial truck operator shall report all accidents involving injury  
to an employee or damage to buildings and equipment to the employer.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS.  
R 408.12180 Clear access.  
Rule 2180. An operator shall maintain clear access of fire aisles, to stairways and fire  
equipment when depositing loads.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12181 Making repairs.  
Rule 2181. Operators shall not make any repairs or adjustments unless specifically  
authorized to do so.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12182 Flammables.  
Rule 2182. A fuel tank shall not be filled while the engine is running.  
Spilled fuel shall be carefully washed away or completely evaporated, and the fuel tank  
cap replaced before restarting the engine.  
History: 1979 AC.  
MOVING TRUCKS  
R 408.12183 Operation.  
Rule 2183. (1) An operator shall operate a powered industrial truck according to the rules  
of this part and in accordance with local traffic rules when on a public road.  
(2) When following another truck, a safe distance shall be maintained approximately 3  
truck lengths from the vehicle ahead and the vehicle shall be kept under control at all times.  
(3) An operator shall give the right of way to ambulances, fire trucks, or other emergency  
vehicles.  
(4) An operator of a rider-type powered industrial truck shall not pass another truck  
traveling in the same direction at intersections, blind spots, or other dangerous locations.  
(5) An operator shall cross railroad tracks diagonally whenever possible and shall not park  
closer than 8 1/2 feet from the center of a railroad track.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS.  
Page 22  
R 408.12184 Slow down at crossings and obstructions.  
Rule 2184. An operator shall slow down and sound the warning device at cross aisles and  
other locations where the operator's vision is obstructed by fixed objects.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS.  
R 408.12185 Clear view.  
Rule 2185. An operator shall look in the direction of and keep a clear view of the direction  
of travel. When moving loads blocking the forward visibility, for safe handling an operator  
shall drive the truck with the load trailing.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12186 Ascending and descending grades.  
Rule 2186. (1) An operator shall ascend and descend grades of 10% or more at a speed of  
not more than 2 miles per hour.  
(2) When ascending or descending a grade that exceeds the back-tilt of the mast, the load  
shall be facing upgrade.  
(3) On all grades, unloaded trucks shall be driven with the load engaging means  
downgrade, tilted back, and raised only as far as necessary to clear the floor or road surface.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12187 Traveling.  
Rule 2187. In level areas an operator shall travel with the load engaging means elevated  
only sufficiently to clear obstacles on floor or roadway.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12188 Starts, stops, and turns.  
Rule 2188. Starts, stops, and turns shall be made in a manner which will prevent a load  
from shifting or overturning the truck.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12189 Horseplay.  
Rule 2189. Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12190 Wet floors, dockboards, and bridge-plates.  
Page 23  
Rule 2190. (1) An operator shall drive at a slow speed over wet or slippery floors.  
(2) Before driving over a dockboard or bridge-plate, an operator shall observe that the  
dockboard or bridge-plate is secured.  
History: 1979 AC; 1983 AACS; 2018 AACS.  
R 408.12191 Entering elevators.  
Rule 2191. (1) An operator shall drive onto elevators only when authorized to do so.  
(2) An elevator shall be entered squarely after it is leveled to the floor. Once on the  
elevator an operator shall neutralize the controls, set the brakes and shut off the power.  
(3) Motorized hand trucks shall enter an elevator and other confined areas with the load  
end forward.  
(4) A truck shall not enter an elevator if the combined weight of the load and truck exceeds  
the capacity of the elevator.  
History: 1979 AC.  
R 408.12192 Running over loose objects.  
Rule 2192. An operator of a truck shall avoid running over loose objects.  
History: 1979 AC.  
LOADING SAFETY  
R 408.12193 Operators; loading.  
Rule 2193. An operator shall:  
(a) Operate a truck equipped with attachments as a partially loaded truck when not  
transporting a load.  
(b) When loading a fork lift truck, place the load engaging means under the load as far as  
possible and tilt the mast backwards to cradle the load.  
(c) Exercise caution when tilting loads especially when they are segmented.  
(d) Lift or transport only a load that is within the rated capacity of the truck.  
(e) Lift or transport only a load that cannot fall out of a basket or container, or off the  
load engaging means during the normal movements of the truck.  
(f) Tilt an elevated load forward only when in a deposit position over a rack or stack.  
History: 1979 AC.  
Page 24  
APPENDIX A  
TYPES OF TRUCKS  
FIGURE 1  
High-Lift Truck  
Counterbalanced Truck  
Cantilever Truck  
Rider Truck  
Fork Lift Truck  
Page 25  
FIGURE 2  
High-Lift Truck  
High-Lift Platform Truck  
Page 26  
FIGURE 3  
Low-Lift Truck  
Low-Lift Platform Truck  
Page 27  
FIGURE 4  
Motorized Hand Truck  
Pallet Truck  
Page 28  
FIGURE 5  
Industrial Tractor  
FIGURE 6  
Motorized Hand/Rider Truck  
Page 29  
FIGURE 7  
Reach Truck  
Page 30  
FIGURE 8  
Side-Loader Truck  
Page 31  
FIGURE 9  
Order Picker Truck High Lift  
Page 32  
FIGURE 10  
Narrow-Aisle Truck  
Straddle Truck  
Page 33  
;