Forklift trucks

Forklift trucks (FLTs) are familiar vehicles in many businesses and are often considered essential.

Forklift trucks however are involved in a large percentage of accidents in the workplace and users are being seriously injured, sometimes fatally, in accidents that are entirely preventable. Many of these accidents are due to operators not having enough training and also poor truck maintenance.

Forklift truck users are employers and workers that own, operate and are responsible for running the vehicles on a day to day basis.

There are steps that employers and workers can take to reduce the risk of accidents in the workplace.

The document 'Forklift Trucks' outlines the steps you can take to control the risks when using FLTs in your premises.  You can download this publication along with other useful documents from the following links:

• Forklift Trucks
• Authorised lift truck drivers template
• Operator checklist for forklift trucks
• Is your lift truck used safely?

Resources

HSE (GB) resources are available on the HSE website.  You can access these documents from the following links:

• Rider-operated lift trucks
• Use lift trucks safely: A brief guide for operators - HSE (GB)
• Lift-truck training: Advice for employers - HSE (GB)
• Thorough examination of lifting equipment: A simple guide for employers (PDF format) – HSE (GB)
• Working platforms (non integrated) on forklift trucks Guidance Note PM28 - HSE (GB)
• Lifting equipment at work: A brief guide - HSE (GB)
• Providing and using work equipment safely: A brief guide - HSE (GB) 
• Workplace transport safety: A brief guide - HSE (GB)

For other resources on forklift trucks click on the 'see related publications' link below.