This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to operate a forklift in compliance with the relevant state/territory authority licence requirements and regulations, in a variety of operational contexts.

It includes checking forklift condition, driving forklift to fulfil operational requirements, and monitoring and maintaining forklift performance and site conditions.

Assessment of this unit will usually be undertaken within a licensing examination conducted by, or under the authority of, the relevant state/territory work health and safety (WHS)/occupational health and safety (OHS) authority.

Operation of a forklift is performed under some supervision, generally within a team environment.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Check forklift condition

1.1

Condition of forklift is checked for compliance with WHS/OHS and workplace requirements for warning devices, manufacturer specifications and nature of load shifting task

1.2

Attachments are checked to ensure appropriate adjustment and operation

1.3

Mirrors and seats are adjusted for safe operation by driver

1.4

Logbooks are checked and appropriate workplace documentation is completed in accordance with workplace requirements

2

Drive forklift

2.1

Forklift is started, steered, manoeuvred, positioned and stopped in accordance with regulations and manufacturer instructions

2.2

Engine power is managed to ensure efficiency and performance and to minimise engine and gear damage

2.3

Operational hazards are identified and/or anticipated and avoided or controlled through defensive driving and appropriate hazard control techniques

2.4

Forklift is driven in reverse, maintaining visibility and achieving accurate positioning

2.5

Forklift is parked, shut down and secured in accordance with manufacturer specifications, regulations and workplace procedures

3

Operate forklift to handle loads

3.1

Lifting task to be undertaken is appropriately planned, and correct lifting truck and attachments are selected

3.2

Load is lifted, carried, lowered and set down in accordance with WHS/OHS legislation, manufacturer specifications and company procedures

4

Monitor site conditions

4.1

Hazards and traffic flow are identified when selecting the most efficient route and appropriate adjustments are made

4.2

Site conditions are assessed to enable safe operations and to ensure no injury to people or damage to property, equipment, loads or facilities occurs

5

Monitor and maintain forklift performance

5.1

Performance and efficiency of vehicle operation is monitored during use

5.2

Defective/irregular performance and malfunctions are reported to relevant personnel

5.3

Forklift records are maintained/updated in accordance with workplace procedures and legislative requirements