Owning and operating forklifts comes with responsibility. It also carries serious potential risks. That’s why there are different forklift rules and regulations in the UK. These laws govern using forklifts to ensure employees’ health and safety in the workplace.
If you’re an employer or forklift operator, you must know these rules to maintain a safe working environment and avoid legal consequences.
What are the Key Forklift Regulations in the UK?
The primary law you need to know is the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HASAWA). This act makes it the employer’s legal duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. They must also protect others affected by their work. The Act is supported by several regulations, including:
- Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
- Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
- Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
These regulations set out specific requirements for working with equipment like forklifts. For example, employers must ensure the forklifts are:
- Suitable for their intended use
- Maintained in a safe condition
- Operated by competent individuals
Who is Responsible for Forklift Safety in the Workplace?
Under the HASAWA, employers are responsible for forklift safety. This includes providing a safe working environment, suitable equipment, and adequate training for forklift operators.
But employees are also responsible for looking after themselves. They need to take reasonable care of their own health and safety. This means following safety procedures. It also means using equipment correctly and reporting defects or concerns to their employer.
What are the Training Requirements for Forklift Operators in the UK?
Legally, PUWER requires that all forklift operators get adequate training. Employers must refer to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for detailed guidance. This code is also known as L117. It focuses specifically on forklift training requirements for operators.
Quick L117 Breakdown
According to L117, operators must complete these training stages before they can operate a forklift unsupervised:
- Basic training
- Specific job training
- Familiarisation training
Basic training covers the skills and knowledge required to operate a forklift safely. Specific job training focuses on the particular working environment and tasks the operator will undertake. Finally, familiarisation training ensures operators understand the forklift’s specific controls, layout, and traits.
Operators should get refresher training regularly. This includes changes in the workplace or the type of forklift they’re using. The frequency of refresher training will depend on the risks associated with the work and the operator’s competence.
What is the Minimum Age for Operating a Forklift in the UK?
The minimum age to operate a forklift in the UK is 16 years old. However, operators under 18 years old are subject to certain restrictions. For example:
- They must not operate a forklift with a lifting capacity exceeding 5 tonnes.
- They must not undertake certain high-risk activities. This includes working in a confined space or handling hazardous substances.
Employers must also do a risk assessment. They must check that young operators aren’t exposed to risks beyond their ability. Operators should receive adequate supervision and training to ensure their safety.
What Safety Measures Should Be in Place When Operating a Forklift?
Employers
Employers can implement safety measures like these to make sure forklifts are operated safely:
- Conducting risk assessments to identify and control potential hazards
- Providing appropriate safety equipment like seat belts, overhead guards, and warning devices
- Ensuring forklifts are regularly inspected and maintained
- Implementing a traffic management system to separate pedestrians and vehicles
- Providing clear signage to indicate designated routes and storage areas
- Ensuring loads are stable and secure before lifting or transporting them
- Implementing a system for reporting and investigating accidents and near-misses
Forklift Operators
Forklift operators should also follow safe working practices, such as:
- Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Conducting pre-use checks to ensure the forklift is safe to operate
- Travelling at a safe speed and avoiding sudden stops or turns
- Using the horn to alert pedestrians and other vehicles
- Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and pedestrians
- Never carrying passengers or lifting people on the forks
- Parking the forklift safely with the forks lowered and the handbrake applied
What are the Consequences of Non-Compliance with Forklift Regulations?
Failure to comply with forklift regulations can result in severe consequences for employers and operators. The HSE has the power to investigate incidents and take enforcement action. Depending on the breach’s severity, enforcement action may include:
- Issuing improvement or prohibition notices requiring changes to the workplace or work practices
- Prosecuting those responsible for the violation. This can result in fines or imprisonment
- Disqualifying individuals from holding certain positions or operating certain equipment
Non-compliance can also cause serious accidents and injuries besides legal consequences. Forklifts are involved in about a quarter of all workplace transport accidents. The main reasons for this include poor supervision and training. Compliance with UK forklift rules and regulations can help mitigate this.
Meeting UK Regulations and Guidelines
Understanding and adhering to UK forklift regulations is crucial for employers and operators. These regulations set safety standards that minimise the risk of accidents. By following the guidelines, employers can create a safe environment for their staff. They can also avoid legal trouble.
Stay on the Straight and Narrow with TAG Forklift Trucks
TAG is a leading forklift sales, hire, servicing, and training provider. We’re committed to safety in the workplace. Our forklift safety solutions have the dual benefit of keeping employees safe and enhancing productivity. Contact us today to discuss your forklift requirements and how we can help you maintain a safe and efficient workplace.
