ABSTRACT
Though there is no direct regulatory standard that addresses safety while working on a dock, it is still the responsibility of the employer to provide a safe work environment for all employees. The two primary regulatory issues that may impact this area are the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s powered industrial truck standard and the general duty clause in the Occupational Safety and Health Act. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s powered industrial truck standard provides a framework for achieving safety where fork-lifts and other such equipment is being operated. The focus is to control risks inside the building while work is being performed on the dock. The Occupational Safety and Health Act’s general duty clause is a blanket statement that identifies the safety of workers as being the responsibility of the employer.
