It’s a new (tax) year, so a clean slate means strategising for the months ahead. And for operators, warehouse managers, and business owners, understanding UK forklift rules and regulations is at the top of the list.
Safety remains a particular concern and motivator, as forklift-related accidents and fatalities still happen in the workplace. That’s why following current laws will remain important through 2025 and beyond. These rules are designed to reduce accidents, keep operations running efficiently, and protect workers in busy warehouse environments.
Staying on top of forklift legislation 2025 is key – not just to meet legal requirements, but to run your business responsibly. Our guide covers the main rules UK operators need to follow and points out what to keep an eye on moving forward.
What Forklift Legislation Must UK Operators Follow in 2025?
Several pieces of legislation will continue to govern forklift operations in the UK throughout 2025. These established regulations form the foundation of safe material handling practices:
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – The overarching legislation establishing employer responsibilities.
- PUWER 1998 (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) – Covers equipment suitability, maintenance, and operator training.
- LOLER 1998 (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) – It looks specifically at lifting equipment safety.
- Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 – Governs overall workplace safety. This includes traffic routes.
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – Requires risk assessments and safety management systems.
These regulations work together to create a comprehensive framework for safe forklift operations. However, a framework is only as good as its implementation. Employers must continue to follow forklift regulations in the UK diligently.
What Are the Main Issues UK Forklift Legislation Emphasises?
UK forklift legislation focuses on keeping workplaces safe, efficient, and legally compliant. Its main areas include operator training, equipment maintenance, pedestrian safety, and proper documentation.
Operator Training
Training is one of the most important parts of forklift safety and staying within the law. Under current rules – set to stay in place through 2025 – employers must make sure all forklift operators are properly trained before they use any equipment.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) outlines three main parts to forklift training:
- Basic training that covers theory and hands-on skills.
- Job-specific training that focuses on the conditions and layout of your workplace.
- Familiarisation training that uses the exact forklift the operator will be driving.
Refresher training is also recommended every 3 to 5 years, even though it’s not a legal requirement. In some high-risk settings, more frequent updates may be needed. The HSE and most insurers see regular refresher training as best practice. Finally, employers must keep clear records of all training. If there’s ever an accident or investigation, employers must show that their operators were trained properly.
Forklift Maintenance
Forklift legislation places a strong focus on equipment safety. Under PUWER and LOLER rules, businesses must:
- Use equipment that’s suitable for the job
- Keep it in safe working condition
- Carry out regular safety inspections
- Ensure only trained people use it
- Provide proper safety features and precautions
LOLER also requires a full inspection (called a “thorough examination”) at least once every 12 months, or every 6 months if the equipment lifts people. A competent person must carry out the inspection, and businesses must keep clear records.
As forklifts get older, regular maintenance becomes even more important. TAG Forklift Trucks offers expert maintenance services and can help you decide if refurbishing your current fleet could extend its life and keep it compliant, while also boosting efficiency.
Pedestrian Safety
Current regulations require warehouse operators to put proper safety measures in place to protect anyone on foot. To reduce the risk of accidents, businesses should:
- Create clearly marked, separate walkways for pedestrians.
- Use traffic management systems with set crossing points.
- Improve visibility at corners and intersections.
- Install clear warning signs and signals.
- Make sure lighting is bright and consistent in work areas.
The HSE considers physical separation between pedestrians and forklifts the best way to keep people safe. If that’s not possible, businesses must use strong systems and clear procedures to manage the risks. Regular risk assessments are also essential. They help identify danger zones and ensure safety measures stay up to date.
Documentation Practices
Keeping clear and accurate records is a key part of staying compliant with forklift legislation. Businesses must document equipment checks, maintenance, operator training, risk assessments, and any accidents or investigations. These records show that the company follows the rules and puts safety first.
Good documentation also helps improve day-to-day safety. More and more companies now use digital systems to manage records. This makes it easier to stay organised and ensures nothing important gets missed.
Do Regulations Differ for Various Forklift Types?
Yes, forklift regulations can change depending on the type of equipment used. This will still matter in 2025. For example, electric forklifts must meet extra rules around battery safety and charging. Equipment like telehandlers or rough terrain forklifts also faces stricter checks due to stability risks.
Training rules also differ. Operators trained on one type of forklift, like a counterbalance truck, can’t use a different type, like a reach truck, unless they’ve had proper training for that machine.
How Can Businesses Ensure Ongoing Compliance Through 2025?
Following forklift legislation isn’t a one-off task. It needs regular attention. Good ways to stay on track include:
- Reviewing safety policies and risk assessments regularly
- Keeping a training log to track operator certificates and refresher dates
- Setting up a clear maintenance plan for all equipment
- Checking the workplace often for new hazards
- Staying up to date with rule changes through industry groups
Doing these things consistently helps to build a strong safety culture, and not just tick legal boxes. Companies that focus on safety often see fewer accidents and better productivity.
What Are the Cost Implications of Maintaining Compliance?
While staying compliant does require investment, it’s important to view these costs in context:
- Regular maintenance helps avoid breakdowns and keeps equipment running longer
- Trained operators usually work more efficiently
- Good safety measures cut down on accidents and reduce downtime
- Following the rules helps you avoid fines and legal trouble
- Insurance can cost less if your safety record is strong
If you’re trying to manage costs, hiring forklifts can be a smart move. TAG Forklift Trucks offers flexible hire plans with maintenance included, helping you stay compliant without big upfront costs.
How can TAG Forklift Trucks support your compliance efforts?
Staying compliant with forklift legislation takes the right equipment and expert support. TAG Forklift Trucks can help by supplying fully compliant new forklifts and used equipment. We offer flexible hire plans and provide expert servicing and repairs. We also use genuine parts to keep your machines within spec and offer clear advice to help you choose the right equipment.
We understand how tough it can be to stay on top of regulations while keeping things running smoothly. That’s why we focus on practical, tailored solutions that work for your business. Contact us today to see how we can support your compliance efforts through 2025 and beyond.
Additional sources:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/index.htm
https://www.hse.gov.uk/legislation/hswa.htm
https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/puwer.htm
https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/loler.htm
