What kind of machinery does the Occupational Safety and Health Act classify stackers?

The Occupational Safety and Health Act classifies stackers as special machinery due to their unique design and function. Stackers are specifically engineered to move and stack materials in warehouses and other facilities, making them distinct from more general categories of machinery. Unlike heavy machinery, which often refers to larger equipment designed for earth moving or construction purposes, stackers are lighter and intended for specific material handling tasks. They also differ from construction equipment, which is primarily used on construction sites, and mobile equipment, which generally refers to vehicles that are road-driven or off-road vehicles.

The classification as special machinery underscores the need for specific operational training, safety protocols, and maintenance procedures tailored to their unique operational characteristics, ensuring safety and efficiency in functioning within various environments.