To provide guidance on safely using forklift work platforms to elevate workers via the lifting ability of a forklift or similar industrial truck.
Background
Unsafe and/or inadequate systems of work – such as standing on forklift tynes or pallets, or in an unsuitable stillage – and the improper use of work platforms are common causes of serious incidents.
Forklift work platforms should be used to elevate workers to perform short duration tasks where it is not practical to use scaffolding, elevating work platforms or similar devices.
Australian Standard AS 2359.1: Powered industrial trucks – General requirements provides a minimum standard to which work platforms should be constructed.
Risk control measures
Safe work procedures should be developed for tasks involving the use of forklift work platforms. Forklift operators must:
be properly trained and hold a high-risk work licence
conduct pre-operational checks before lifting any person in a work platform, including ensuring the work platform is securely attached to the forklift
ensure the vehicle is parked while workers are on the platform
remain at the forklift controls at all times, keeping hands and feet clear of controls other than to lift or lower when required
ensure all parts of the forklift are clear of overhead obstructions, especially powerlines and overhead electrical cables
limit the number of workers on the platform to the manufacturer’s or competent person’s instruction
erect barriers and signs in areas subject to passing traffic and ensure nobody stands or passes under the forklift tynes or platform (whether loaded or empty), unless they are a competent person conducting maintenance
The forklift must:
be parked on a hard level surface, with the handbrake on
have all controls, other than lift and lower, immobilised
have the mast vertical and tynes horizontal
(if hydraulic) be fitted with a flow restrictor to limit the lowering speed in the event of hydraulic failure
