Forklift safety will be a hot topic on Capitol Hill next month. On June 9, members of the Industrial Truck Association (ITA), which represents lift truck manufacturers and suppliers of component parts and accessories, will take part in the second annual National Forklift Safety Day. The daylong program will provide an opportunity for manufacturers to educate customers, policymakers, and government officials about the safe use of forklifts and the importance of proper operator training.

The event will begin with featured speakers from the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), forklift industry representatives, and a representative of the Department of Labor section that has jurisdictional oversight over lift trucks. Attendees will then meet with members of Congress to discuss regulatory issues as well as trade policies that could benefit U.S. lift truck manufacturers.

ITA says it hopes National Forklift Safety Day will provide greater awareness of safe practices as well as encourage safer behavior in warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants, and other environments where forklifts are in use. To register to attend the program, go to www.indtrk.org/national-forklift-safety-day. The registration deadline is May 25.

Washington-based ITA represents manufacturers of lift trucks, tow tractors, rough-terrain vehicles, hand pallet trucks, and automated guided vehicles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The organization promotes international standards development, advances engineering and safety practices, disseminates statistical information, and holds industry forums.