SMG News
awards, service lines, and more.
SMG News
Check out the latest Staffmark timely articles, news, and stay informed about our latest innovations, awards, service lines, and more.
share article:
Cincinnati, OH, June 3, 2025
Enhancing Forklift Safety: Essential Guidelines for a Safer Workplace
At Staffmark Group, our commitment to safety is paramount, ensuring both our talent and clients operate in secure, compliant environments. Here’s how we uphold stringent safety protocols and mitigate risks associated with forklift operations.
Understanding the Importance of PIT Safety
Forklifts, while essential for operational efficiency, present significant safety hazards if not managed correctly. According to OSHA standard 1910.178(l), ensuring comprehensive training and adherence to safety guidelines is not only mandatory but crucial for minimizing workplace incidents and protecting employees.
Staffmark Group’s Robust Safety Procedures
Our safety framework involves several critical steps:
- Safety Department Approval:
All forklift assignments require approval from the Safety Department before staffing. This includes sit-down counterbalance forklifts, stand-up reach trucks, electric pallet jacks, order pickers, and other similar equipment. - Comprehensive Candidate Screening:
- Drug Testing: Every PIT operator candidate undergoes a mandatory 5-panel drug screening.
- Experience Verification: Candidates must possess a minimum of six months of verifiable PIT operation experience.
- Safety Reviews with Clients:
We conduct comprehensive safety reviews of client sites, partnering closely with clients to ensure the best possible safety experience for our PIT operators. - Training and Assessments:
- Candidates review our Safety Guide – Forklift and Manual Material Handling (RM 045).
- Candidates view the Staffmark Group Powered Industrial Truck Safety Video available here.
- Candidates complete the Forklift Operations Assessment (TEMP 265), which clients may require higher passing scores depending on specific client policies.
- Upon passing, candidates acknowledge their training through the Forklift Safety Guide Acknowledgement (TEMP 285).
- Client Site Certification:
Clients must conduct hands-on operations assessments and provide documentation. They can either use their own documentation or our Staffmark Group Customer Site-Specific Training Form (RM 007).
Real-world Impact: Reducing Incidents and Costs
Implementing these rigorous protocols has significantly impacted our operations positively. In the past two years alone, Staffmark Group has experienced a noticeable reduction in forklift-related claims and associated costs, underscoring the effectiveness of stringent safety procedures.
Continuous Improvement and Training
OSHA mandates refresher training every three years or after any incident involving a PIT operator. At Staffmark Group, we proactively adhere to these standards, conducting regular performance evaluations and providing necessary retraining promptly.
Call to Action
Safety isn’t just a procedure—it’s a culture. We invite you to explore further safety tips, guidelines, and best practices available through Staffmark Group resources. Together, we can create safer workplaces for everyone.
Stay informed, stay safe. For more safety resources or staffing solutions, visit our Safety Hub or connect with us directly.
