What is this document?
INDG457 is a brief pocket guide designed for lift truck operators. It provides essential safety information in a quick-reference format that operators can keep with them while working.
The guide covers the fundamentals of safe lift truck operation, helping operators protect themselves and their colleagues from the most common causes of lift truck accidents.
Who needs to read this?
- Lift truck operators who need a quick safety reference
- Warehouse workers who work alongside lift trucks
- Small business owners who operate lift trucks on their premises
- Supervisors responsible for lift truck operations
- New operators who have completed training and need a reminder of key points
Key points covered
The guide focuses on practical operator safety:
- Pre-use checks that operators should carry out before starting work
- Safe operating procedures including speed, visibility, and manoeuvring
- Load handling covering load capacity, stability, and stacking
- Working around people and keeping pedestrians safe
- Slopes and inclines and how to travel safely on uneven ground
- Refuelling and recharging safety for different power sources
- What to do if the truck tips to protect yourself in an emergency
How this applies to you
If you operate a lift truck, use this guide as a daily reminder of safe working practices. Carry out your pre-use checks every shift and report any faults immediately. Never operate a truck that is not fit for purpose.
Always be aware of people around you. Use your horn at blind corners and junctions. Travel with the forks low and the mast tilted back. Never exceed the rated capacity of your truck.
If you manage lift truck operations, make sure this guidance is available to all operators. Consider laminating copies so operators can keep them in their trucks for easy reference.
For guidance on managing workplace transport more broadly, see our workplace transport safety guidance. For more on managing workplace risks, visit our workplace safety topic guide.