Forklift man lift crate.

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So with the torrential rain in winds that come with the joys of living in Florida. Its pretty hard on gutters of greenhouses and buildings on the farm. Whenever gutters and what not need cleaning we generally throw one of dads minimum wage workers in the tractor bucket or throw a pallet on the fork lift. Well at the rate people are going now days we dont want a law suit. So I had the Idea to build a man lift crate. I don't know the exact terms for it but basically its a square base with a railing to prevent falls. The OSHA regs state the railing has to be 42in in height Plus or minus 3 in. The base is 2x6 tube 1/8in wall thickness. Going to plasma cut slats for the forks and then weld in 3/16 plate for reinforcement. Cross member are 2in angle 1/8in. And the railing is 1.5in square tube. 1/8in. And its going to get a expanded metal deck. And I get to test out the cut table I built last week also. Anybody have any suggestions or changes to my plans? Someone's life could on the on the line with this.  Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk Attached Images
Reply:Are those OSHA regs allowing anyone to be "lifted" by a forklift, regardless of the safety concerns that may be taken into account?   Unless I'm mistaken, a forklift can't be used to lift human labor, period.   Isn't that what a "scissor" lift or "cherry picker bucket" is specifically designed for?  Maybe I'm wrong on this one.Lincoln Power Mig 216Lincoln AC/DC-225/125Miller  625 X-Treme PlasmaMiller 211 Forney 95FI-A 301HF 91110Victor Journeyman O/PMilwaukee DaytonMakita  Baileigh NRA Life Member
Reply:Originally Posted by SuperArcAre those OSHA regs allowing anyone to be "lifted" by a forklift, regardless of safety concerns that are taken into account?   Unless I'm mistaken, a forklift can't be used to lift human labor, period.   Isn't that what a "scissor" lift or "cherry picker bucket" is specifically designed for?  Maybe I'm wrong on this one.
Reply:I don't claim to know the OSHA rules but I would also look into a way to secure the basket to the forks, ie bolts or pins.
Reply:Originally Posted by WillHunt4FoodI don't claim to know the OSHA rules but I would also look into a way to secure the basket to the forks, ie bolts or pins.
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13I was thinking welding a C-clamp
Reply:I wouldnt trust c clamps. I'd weld on a tab and drill holes for a pin that can be pulled easily. Or you could attach straps to the cage that would clip to a solid point on the forksSent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Reply:You might want to consult OSHA regulations on personnel baskets BEFORE you start cutting any steel for this project. There is a requirement also for a secure tie off point for fall protection harness. Pins or bolts like WillHunt said would be more secure than welded on C clamps.So take a look at the OSHA regulations on what they approve before starting this.
Reply:And if the forklift doesn't go high enough, you can always use a 2nd........Tim
Reply:Originally Posted by pin2hotAnd if the forklift doesn't go high enough, you can always use a 2nd........
Reply:Want to avoid a lawsuit when someone gets hurt/dies use a ladder or a man lift. If you do build a man basket do it EXACTLY how the OSHA regs say it is to be constructed and tested and still hope that no one gets hurt
Reply:I have seen commercially available ones with chains to the mast to hold it from coming off. A 4 inch toe board and a center rail are needed, so a hinged door with a latch would be a good idea. Possibly some type of shelf or pockets to put a shelf to hold tools, paint or whatnot may be something to add.Miller xmt304,  Miller S22 p12, Miier Maxstar SD, Miller 252 w 30A, Miller super32p12, Lincoln Ranger 9, Thermal Arc 181I with spoolgun, Hypertherm 10000 ,Smith torches. Esab 161lts miniarc.
Reply:So I had the idea to weld a drop pin receiver to the forks at the top . Along with 4 c clamps. My wonderful droid never told me when all of you guys replied to the thread. So i bought these c clamps without knowing and i figured I might as well use them. I have some 309 1/8in tig wire ill weld it with. They were on sale for $6.50 at lowes. Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
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Reply:I would check with your insurance carrier before starting. Some may require a stamped, tested,  certified , manufactured product. The old days you may have gotten away with shop made even if it was made better then what you could buy. Today, could be different. You don't want to lose the farm.
Reply:Originally Posted by BD1I would check with your insurance carrier before starting. Some may require a stamped, tested,  certified , manufactured product. The old days you may have gotten away with shop made even if it was made better then what you could buy. Today, could be different. You don't want to lose the farm.
Reply:the anchor point for a body harness needs to have a weight rating of 5000 lbs also. don't t take this build lightly.  dave.
Reply:The forklift baskets I've been in all had chains for going around the mast.  I don't know if this is the correct way or not, it's just what I've seen.
Reply:Originally Posted by AcemanThe forklift baskets I've been in all had chains for going around the mast.  I don't know if this is the correct way or not, it's just what I've seen.
Reply:The retention chains or straps that keep the basket from disengaging the forks will attach to the  Fork CARRIAGE, not the mast.
Reply:You need a toe board around the base. Keeps you and your stuff in the basket. Use fork pockets and chains.
Reply:Originally Posted by SuperArcAre those OSHA regs allowing anyone to be "lifted" by a forklift, regardless of the safety concerns that may be taken into account?   Unless I'm mistaken, a forklift can't be used to lift human labor, period.   Isn't that what a "scissor" lift or "cherry picker bucket" is specifically designed for?  Maybe I'm wrong on this one.
Reply:I can only speak to manbasket use in heavy construction as on loaders and telehandlers (or "Lulls"). OSHA...as with everything...is typically "grey" on this subject...because, let's face it...that's where the money is. Having recently been certified as a trainer on this subject..most of what all of you have said applies concerning fall protection, basket specs, and securing to the forks. (Our basket has tabs that end up on each side of the fork "heels" and secure with a 3/4 inch pin). Additionally, you're not supposed to travel with personnel on board...(Lifting into position only..with the trained operator always in the seat). Most importantly, though, OSHA will usually defer to the machines operator manual for permission to use a manbasket or contact must be secured in writing from the manufacturer. I have found that most manufacturers will allow only their own baskets be used. Gee, go figure.... Seriously though, lifting personnel on forks is dangerous as it gets. We've relegated our old generic basket to the dustbin and rely solely on "real" boom or scissor lifts. A small operational mistake or defect will cost you everything.Last edited by SMC Weldcraft; 06-11-2014 at 07:13 AM.POVERTY...is the Mother of InventionMillermatic 211Millermatic 140Miller Thunderbolt XLArcOne 100STS inverter w/TIGThermal Dynamics 38XL Victor Oxy/AcetyleneJancy Slugger Holemaker IIJet 5x6 BandsawNever enough time & sleep.
Reply:Lunch time update: got the frame and cut and welded out. I cut the cross members out, then it dawned on me, our forklift doesn't have 5 ft long forks so thankfully I had enough rect. Tube to put a a cross member in at the end of the forks. Then I recut the angle cross members and heres where I stand while I eat my Wendy's.Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk Attached Images
Reply:It is likely not legal.https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owa...ONS&p_id=24412Even if every i is dotted and t is crossed on the construction of the basket, the manufacturer of the forklift still must rate the lift truck as suitable for lifting people.Originally Posted by Rock knockerIt is likely not legal.https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owa...ONS&p_id=24412Even if every i is dotted and t is crossed on the construction of the basket, the manufacturer of the forklift still must rate the lift truck as suitable for lifting people.
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13Attachment 740451Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13Well, id imagine insurance would have a fit if they seen them up on a old wood pallet, not so much the liftSent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:Originally Posted by Rock knockerLike I said, likely not legal.Read the rules.  A link from the link provided by Tackit on post #9 is quite good.
Reply:Now this brings back memories of changing the light bulb in my old unit, only problem 20ft in the air, one forktruck, one pallet and some rope, and only me there. I won't say how i did it but i'm sure you can guess. Those cages are pretty common in the UK I've built a few in my time , you need to get them tested so that they are legal to use
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13Now that I think of it our forklift is OSHA approved since its claimed on insurance under the trucking side of the business
Reply:Originally Posted by Rock knockerClaiming it on insurance has nothing to due with OSHA.  And being a OSHA compliant forklift has nothing to do with being a OSHA compliant forklift capable as per the manufacturer of lifting personnel
Reply:You may want to get legal advice about this too. YOU maybe working for one of dads minimum wage workers if something happens. Life Safety issues are not taken lightly today. Maybe Florida is different.
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13Oh Damn. Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13Whenever gutters and what not need cleaning we generally throw one of dads minimum wage workers in the tractor bucket or throw a pallet on the fork lift. Well at the rate people are going now days we dont want a law suit.
Reply:Originally Posted by BD1Maybe Florida is different.
Reply:Originally Posted by MinnesotaDaveAlthough this thread has been pretty interesting, this open statement pisses me off.My .02
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13Ever since I was little enough to walk around the farm I always told my dad that that was dangerous Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:We made are own lifting beams with our certified welders. Guys welded like machines 100 % x ray welds. Crane company would not lift with it because there was no nameplate , stamped or certified rated lifting capacity labeled on it or made by a lifting beam manufacture. Had a issue with older nylon slings too, appeared in good condition BUT the label with the capacities and load ratings used as basket or choker was no longer clearly visible. Wouldn't lift with it.   I wold save the farm and by a boom or scissors lift. That would give you a lot more uses PLUS you would only be using one man instead of two for the same job. A boom lift would definitely be faster then moving a fork truck around.
Reply:So I talked with dad and showed him the entire thread on this..... and he said continue the build, so gotta do what he saydSent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:Originally Posted by BD1We made are own lifting beams with our certified welders. Guys welded like machines 100 % x ray welds. Crane company would not lift with it because there was no nameplate , stamped or certified rated lifting capacity labeled on it or made by a lifting beam manufacture. Had a issue with older nylon slings too, appeared in good condition BUT the label with the capacities and load ratings used as basket or choker was no longer clearly visible. Wouldn't lift with it.   I wold save the farm and by a boom or scissors lift. That would give you a lot more uses PLUS you would only be using one man instead of two for the same job. A boom lift would definitely be faster then moving a fork truck around.
Reply:Originally Posted by Firemanmike69Kid asked for advice and so far hasn't taken any of it, he's on his own now
Reply:Ok I'm done. Hopefully nothing will go wrong but if it does I wonder how dad will like being a minimum wage worker.
Reply:Originally Posted by BD1Ok I'm done. Hopefully nothing will go wrong but if it does I wonder how dad will like being a minimum wage worker.
Reply:So day 1 this is how it sits. Frame built with slats cut for the forks. Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:Originally Posted by swampwelder13So I talked with dad and showed him the entire thread on this..... and he said continue the build, so gotta do what he saydSent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:I will put my $.02 in.I'm a certified forklift operator and if I did lift someone up in that basket and something happened as the operator I could be brought up on criminal charges and face jail time. Is saving $1,500-$2,000 really worth that?We had a crane operator at the shop yesturday and he told us the same thing. If we are stupid and walk too close to the counterweight and get hit/killed by it, he is the one that gets charges against him.Sent from my SPH-L710 using TapatalkTOO MANY TOOLS & NO MORE SPACE
Reply:So it may not be ethical but he said if I do it right they'll be no problems. Spoke to a man down south whos shop makes those lifts, he offered to inspect it and if it passes he'll put his stamp on it for a small fee and royalty to the company. Sent from my C811 4G using Tapatalk
Reply:Perhaps you could just rig up on of these
Reply:Originally Posted by Timster2Perhaps you could just rig up on of these