What you will learn & how you will be assessed

To successfully complete this unit, you will need to demonstrate that you can safely and competently operate a forklift truck in a workplace environment.

You will be required to demonstrate your skills on at least one occasion, including:

• Completing pre-start and operational checks

• Checking the forklift data plate, attachments and manufacturer requirements

• Identifying hazards and applying appropriate risk controls

• Checking the work area, ground conditions, traffic controls and exclusion zones

• Selecting the correct attachment and determining load requirements

• Safely lifting, transporting, manoeuvring and placing loads

• Conducting a trial lift and ensuring the load and forklift remain stable

• Operating with minimum 250 kg dynamic and non-dynamic loads

• Lifting loads to 75% of the forklift's maximum height

• Driving forward and reverse through an obstacle course, including an S-bend with 90-degree turns

• Placing loads into compliant racking and onto elevated, stable areas

• Using forks, tilt and side-shift functions safely where fitted

• Using an observer when loads restrict visibility

• Maintaining safe operating speeds and load heights

• Communicating effectively using warning devices, signage, radios and verbal instructions

• Identifying, isolating and reporting defective equipment

• Refuelling or recharging safely using required PPE

• Parking, isolating and shutting down the forklift correctly

You must also demonstrate that you can:

• Follow relevant WHS legislation, standards, manufacturer requirements and workplace procedures

• Maintain three points of contact when entering and exiting the forklift

• Assess load weight, centre of gravity, stability and attachment suitability

• Respond appropriately to changing weather, ground and environmental conditions

• Apply traffic management and exclusion zone requirements

• Maintain accurate forklift records and report hazards or deficiencies

You will need knowledge of:

• Forklift capabilities, limitations, data plates and manufacturer requirements

• Safe use and suitability of forklift attachments

• Load weight, centre of gravity and forklift stability

• Safe operation on ramps, uneven surfaces and restricted areas

• Common hazards, equipment faults and unsafe conditions

• Traffic management and communication procedures

• Risk assessment and the hierarchy of controls

• Refuelling, recharging, isolation and lock-out/tag-out procedures

• Emergency and fault response procedures

• Relevant WHS requirements and workplace documentation

• Safe shutdown and parking procedures

Assessment will be conducted using a forklift truck, appropriate attachments and loads of at least 250 kg in a safe, realistic workplace environment. You must demonstrate safe and consistent performance, including lifting, transporting, manoeuvring and placing loads, in accordance with relevant legislation, workplace procedures and manufacturer requirements.