Forklift Health Safety

Health & Safety
Best
Practices
Guideline
SECTION 1: Introduction
Copyright and disclaimer

This material may be used, reproduced, stored or transmitted for non-commercial purposes. The source of this material
must be acknowledged when publishing or issuing it to others. This material is not to be used, reproduced, stored or
transmitted for commercial purposes without written permission from the Government of Alberta.
The information provided in this document is solely for the users information and convenience and, while thought
to be accurate and functional, it is provided without warranty of any kind. The Crown, its agents, employees or
contractors will not be liable to you for any damages, direct or indirect, arising out of your use of the information
contained in this document.
This document may be applicable to assist in establishing a forklift health and safety program at your worksite. However,
it is critical that you evaluate your own unique circumstances to ensure that an appropriate program is established for
your work site. It is strongly recommended that you consult relevant professionals (including, but not limited to, lawyers
and health and safety specialists) to assist in the development of your own program. Further, this document does not
replace the need for employers to ensure their workers are trained and competent in the safe use of forklift trucks.
It is important to note that adherence to this document does not absolve you from potential liability under the legislation
in cases where you are determined to be in non-compliance with the legislation. In case of any inconsistency between
this document and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulation or Code, the legislation will always prevail.
This document is current to September 15, 2014. The law changes from time to time with new legislation, amendments
to existing legislation, and decisions from the courts. It is important that you keep up with these changes and keep
yourself informed of the current law.
Published September 2014
Publication number BP015
Copyright 2014 by Government of Alberta, Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour
ISBN 978-1-4601-1961-7 (print)
ISBN 978-1-4601-1962-4 (online)
Health & Safety

Best
Practices
Guideline
5 SECTION 1
Introduction
8 SECTION 2
Legislation
14 SECTION 3
Key elements of a health and
safety program for forklifts
16 SECTION 4
Hazard assessment
21 SECTION 5
Worker training and competency
34 SECTION 6
Management, supervision
and internal responsibility
36 SECTION 7
Safe operating procedures
40 SECTION 8
Equipment maintenance
and modification
42 SECTION 9
Facility design
43 SECTION 10
Preventing injuries to muscles, joints
and bones
Acknowledgements
This best practices guideline was created with the help
of a multi-stakeholder advisory committee that drew
on its experience in forklift truck health and safety. The
advisory committee included representatives from:
Alberta Construction Safety Association
Alberta Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour
Alberta Federation of Labour
Health and Safety Association Network
International Union of Painters & Allied Trades
Manufacturers Health & Safety Association
Oil Sands Safety Association
Wajax Industries
Alberta Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour wishes to
acknowledge and thank the Ontario Ministry of Labour
for permission to adapt its Guideline for Safe Operation
of Powered Lift Trucks, July 1999 and Manitoba Labour
and Immigration for permission to adapt its Code of
Practice For the Safe Operation of Powered Lift Trucks,
November 2006.
Forklift Health & Safety Best Practices Guideline
Introduction
Forklift trucks (forklifts) can pose significant risks
to workers who operate or work around them.
To demonstrate some of the potential dangers of
operating forklifts, the following are examples of
forklift related fatalities that have occurred:
A worker was struck by a chain that dislodged from

a pickup truck during an attempt to tow a forklift.
A worker
was crushed
by a forklift
that fell off a
jack stand
during forklift
maintenance.
A worker was
crushed by
steel beams
that were
dislodged from
a forklift while
being unloaded
from a trailer.
A worker was crushed between a tank that was

being moved by a forklift and another object.
A worker was crushed

by lumber that fell while being
lifted by a forklift.
A worker was struck by a

piece of equipment that
slipped while pressure was being
applied to it by a forklifta task
the forklift was not designed for.
A worker
was crushed
by a forklift
that tipped
over on top
of him.
A worker was overcome by

carbon monoxide gas from
a propane-powered forklift that
was operating inside a bay
with closed doors.
A worker was struck by

equipment attached to a
compressed gas cylinder that
ruptured when a forklift was
unloading the equipment
from a truck.
A worker was crushed between a forklift that rolled

forward and a trailer while loading concrete blocks.
A review of these and other scenarios involving forklift

incidents showed a variety of causes for injuries to
workers, and that such incidents could have been
prevented if safer practices had been followed.
This best practices guideline provides practical
guidance to help employers fulfill their obligations to
protect the health and safety of workers who operate or
work around forklifts.
Powered forklifts covered in this guideline include

self-propelled vehicles of Class 1 to 7 as defined by the
Industrial Truck Association:
CLASS 1: Electric motor rider trucks
CLASS 3: Electric motor driven hand trucks
Counterbalanced
rider, pneumatic
tire, sit down.
Low lift platform
High lift straddle

Counterbalanced
rider, stand up.
CLASS 2: Electric motor narrow aisle trucks
CLASS 4 and 5: Internal combustion

engine lift trucks, cushion or pneumatic tires
Fork, counterbalanced,
cushion tire
High lift straddle
Order picker
Fork, counterbalanced,
pneumatic tire
Non-powered forklifts covered in this guideline

include:
CLASS 6: Electric and internal combustion

engine tractors
Manual pallet jacks
Sit down rider
CLASS 7: Rough-terrain lift trucks
Vertical mast rough

terrain fork lift truck
Variable reach
rough terrain
fork lift truck
Legislation
Albertas Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)
Act, Regulation and Code have general and specific
requirements related to the operation of forklifts.
In many instances the legislation sets out requirements
for the safe use of equipment or powered mobile
equipment. All forklifts meet the definition of
equipment and all powered forklifts meet the
definition of powered mobile equipment. Hence,
requirements relating to equipment and powered
mobile equipment apply to forklifts.
Some sections of the legislation applicable to forklifts
are simplified and generalized below. For ease of
understanding, the word forklift has been substituted
for equipment where applicable. Refer to the actual
legislation for the complete rules. The legislation can be
viewed online at worksafe.alberta.ca or ordered from
the Alberta Queens Printer at qp.alberta.ca.
The OHS Act sets out general duties for employers,
workers and suppliers:

Employers must ensure the health and safety of

all workers at a work site. OHS ACT, SECTION 2
Workers must take reasonable care and cooperate

with their employer to protect their health and
safety, and the health and safety of other workers at
a work site. OHS ACT, SECTION 2
Suppliers must ensure that forklifts supplied are

in safe operating condition. OHS ACT, SECTION 2
The OHS Act requires that all forklifts sold by a
supplier, and being used by an employer, be in safe
operating condition and comply with the OHS
Code. The employer must not rely on the supplier
to ensure compliance. OHS ACT, SECTION 11
OHS Regulation
OHS Code
In accordance with the OHS Regulation:
In accordance with the OHS Code:
Manufacturers specifications Employers

must ensure that forklift manufacturers
specifications (which include forklift operation
and maintenance manuals) are followed and
available to workers, and workers must be familiar
with the specifications. OHS REGULATION, SECTION 7
Equipment Forklifts must be maintained in a
condition that will not compromise the health and
safety of workers, and safely perform the functions
for which they are intended. OHS REGULATION,
Assessing hazards Employers must assess

their work sites to identify existing and potential
hazards before work begins, and must eliminate or
control the identified hazards. OHS CODE, SECTION 7
Appropriate equipment Employers must

ensure that forklifts used in the workplace are of
sufficient size, strength and design to perform the
function for which they are intended. OHS CODE,
SECTION 12
Manufacturers specifications Employers

must ensure that forklifts are operated and
maintained in accordance with manufacturers
specifications, and that any modifications are done
in accordance with manufacturers specifications
or specifications certified by a professional
engineer. OHS CODE, SECTION 12
The employer must ensure that the forklift

manufacturers specifications are followed. If the
manufacturers specifications are unavailable
or do not exist, the employer must develop and
comply with procedures that are certified by a
professional engineer to ensure the safe operation
and maintenance of the forklift. Alternatively, the
employer can have the forklift certified as safe to
operate by a professional engineer at least every
12 calendar months. The professional engineers
certification must be in writing and be stamped and
signed by the engineer. OHS CODE, SECTIONS 13 & 14
Code of Practice/Safe Job Procedures The

employer must have a written code of practice
governing the practices and procedures to be
followed by workers using a forklift in a confined
space. The code of practice must identify all
existing and potential confined space work
locations at a work site take into account and
apply the requirements specified in the OHS Code
for confined spaces and hot work, and it must be
maintained and periodically reviewed. A worker
involved in any aspect of a confined space entry
must comply with the employers code of practice.
SECTION 12
Operator Competency Employers must

ensure that work involving the use of a forklift is
done either by a competent worker, or by a worker
under the direct supervision of a competent
worker, and that those workers are familiar with
all safe work procedures or measures pertaining
to that work. The employer must also ensure that
workers are competent in the application, care,
use, maintenance and limitations of the forklift,
any safety or protective equipment that may be
required in the use of a forklift. OHS REGULATION,
SECTION 13
Training Employers must ensure that workers

are trained in the safe operation of forklifts that
workers are required to operate, and workers must
participate in and apply the training. Employers
must inform workers of any health hazards from
harmful substances (such as carbon monoxide
from internal combustion engine forklifts) that
workers may be exposed to and the employers
procedures to protect workers health. Employers
must also ensure that workers apply the training.
OHS REGULATION, SECTION 15
OHS CODE, SECTION 44
SECTION 2: Legislation
Danger from movement and securing of

materials Employers must ensure that workers
are protected from any danger related to the
movement of a powered forklift or the movement
or dislodgement of a load on or near a forklift. If
a worker could be injured by dislodged materials,
or movement of an elevated forklift undergoing
repairs, for example, reasonable steps must
be taken to ensure the material, or forklift, is
restrained to eliminate the potential danger.
OHS CODE, SECTIONS 189 & 258
Pedestrian traffic Employers must ensure that

workers on foot are protected from powered forklift
traffic. An employer must ensure pedestrians wear
a piece of highly visible clothing, that walkways
are designated to separate pedestrian traffic
from areas where powered forklifts are operating
and that workers use the designated walkways.
Where designated walkways are not practicable,
employers must ensure that safe work procedures
are used to protect workers. OHS CODE, SECTIONS
194 & 259
10
Lifting and handling loads Employers

must provide, where reasonably practicable,
appropriate equipment for lifting, lowering,
carrying, handling or transporting heavy or awkward
loads. OHS CODE, SECTION 208
Training and competence Workers must not

operate powered forklifts unless they are trained
and have demonstrated competence to safely
operate the forklift, or are under the direct
supervision of a competent worker. Employers
must also ensure that workers who may be exposed
to the possibility of musculoskeletal injury are
trained in specific measures to eliminate or reduce
that possibility. OHS CODE, SECTIONS 211.1 & 256
Seat belts and control Where powered forklifts

are equipped with a seat belt, employers must
ensure that the seat belt is present and in useable
condition, and workers must wear the seat belt.
Workers must operate forklifts safely and maintain
full control of the forklift at all times, which
includes keeping the cab, floor and deck of powered
forklifts free of materials, tools or other objects
that could interfere with the operation or create
other hazards. OHS CODE, SECTIONS 256 & 284
The employer must ensure that forklifts have
seats or other installations sufficient to ensure the
safety of the operator and other workers who may
be in or on the equipment while it is in motion. All
forklifts fitted with a rollover protective structure
manufactured on or after July 1, 2009, must have
seat belts for the operator and passengers that
comply with either SAE Standard J386 (2006),
Operator Restraint System for Off-Road Work
Machines, or SAE Information Report J2292
(2006), Combination Pelvic/Upper Torso (Type
2) Operator Restraint Systems for Off-Road Work
Machines. If the work process makes the wearing
of seat belts in the forklift impracticable, the
employer may permit workers to wear shoulder
belts or use bars, screens or other restraining
devices designed to prevent the operator or a
passenger from being thrown out of the rollover
protective structure. OHS CODE, SECTION 266 & 271
Visual inspection Forklift operators must
complete a visual inspection of a powered forklift
and the surrounding area to ensure that the forklift
is in safe operating condition and that no worker,
including the operator, is endangered when the
forklift is started up. OHS CODE, SECTION 257
Equipment inspection Employers must ensure

that powered forklifts are inspected by a competent
worker for defects and conditions that are
hazardous or may create a hazard. If an inspection
indicates that a forklift is hazardous or potentially
hazardous, an employer must ensure that the
health and safety of a worker who may be exposed
to the hazard is protected immediately and the
forklift is not operated until the defect is repaired
or the condition is corrected. Alternatively, if the
forklift is potentially hazardous but can be operated
safely temporarily, an employer must ensure that
the operator is made aware of the potential hazard
and the defect or condition is repaired as soon as
reasonably practicable. OHS CODE, SECTION 260
Securing Parts of Forklift The employer must
ensure that if elevated parts of a forklift are being
maintained or repaired by workers, the parts and
the forklift are securely blocked in place to prevent
accidental movement. OHS CODE, SECTION 261

Warning signal Employers must ensure that,

if a forklift operators view of a powered forklifts
path of travel is obstructed or cannot be seen
directly or indirectly in a direction, the forklift
has an automatic audible warning device
that is audible above the ambient noise level.
Alternatively, another warning device or method
appropriate to the hazards of the work site can be
used. OHS CODE, SECTION 267
Falling objects protective structures

If the hazard assessment identifies that a forklift
operator may be exposed to falling objects, the
employer must ensure that the forklift is equipped
with a falling objects protective structure.
Unattended controls Workers operating

a powered forklift must not leave the controls
of the forklift unattended unless the forklift is
secured against unintentional movement by an
effective method of immobilizing the forklift.
Lighting Employers must ensure that powered
forklifts used in poorly lit areas are equipped with
lighting that illuminates the working area around
the forklift as well as the forklifts control panel.
Warning Devices The employer must ensure a

forklift is equipped with a device, within easy reach
of the operator, which permits the operator to
stop the unit as quickly as possible. A forklift must
have an effective means of warning workers of its
presence, general dimensions and movement if it
poses a danger to a worker. OHS CODE, SECTION 266
Windows Employers must ensure that windows

and windshields used as part of the enclosure
for a cab, canopy or protective structure on a
powered forklift are of safety glass or another
non-shattering material, that broken or cracked
glazing that obstructs an operators view is
replaced as soon as reasonably practicable,
and that a windshield has windshield wipers of
sufficient size and capacity to clean matter that
obstructs the operators view from the windshield.
11
Load rating chart Employers must ensure that

forklifts have a durable and legible load rating
chart (capacity plate) that is readily available to
the operator. OHS CODE, SECTION 283
Aerial fork-mounted work platform

Employers must ensure that work platforms
(or cages) mounted on a powered forklifts forks
are securely attached to the forklift, and that
a work platform used to support a worker is
commercially manufactured or designed and
certified by a professional engineer. Employers
must also ensure that workers on a forklifts forkmounted work platform use a personal fall arrest
system connected to an anchor specified by the
manufacturer of the work platform or forklift,
and if practical, the lanyard is short enough to
prevent the worker from being ejected from the
work platform. Forklift operators must remain at
the forklifts controls while a worker is on a forkmounted elevated work platform, and may not
move the forklift horizontally when a worker is on
the work platform. OHS CODE, SECTIONS 156 & 349
12
Chemical hazards Employers must ensure

that a workers exposure to any harmful
substance (e.g., carbon monoxide or carbon
dioxide produced by a powered forklifts internal
combustion engine) is kept as low as reasonably
achievable and does not exceed its occupational
exposure limit. OHS CODE, SECTION 16
Workplace Hazardous Materials

Information System (WHMIS) Employers
must ensure that controlled products (e.g., propane
or natural gas used to fuel a powered forklifts
internal combustion engine) are used, stored, and
handled in accordance with Part 29 of the OHS
Code. Workers who refuel forklifts must be trained
in WHMIS, including the theory plus practical
aspects of refueling. Generic WHMIS training,
on its own, might not be sufficient to meet the full
training requirement because generic training
might not include the practical worksite-specific
component.
In the event of an injury, an employer must comply

with section 18 the OHS Act regarding the reporting
and investigation of injuries and accidents. For more
information, refer to the bulletin Reporting and
Investigating Injuries and Incidents (LI016) available at
worksafe.alberta.ca.
The above is a simplified summary of some parts of the
relevant OHS legislation that pertains to forklifts and is
not the legislation itself. Refer to the actual legislation for
the actual and complete rules.
For further information

In addition to complying with OHS legislation:

In the event of an injury, an employer must

comply with the Workers Compensation Act.
More information is available at wcb.ab.ca or by
phoning 1-866-922-9221.
If a powered forklift is operated on a public roadway,

the vehicle and operator must comply with Albertas
Traffic Safety Act. More information is available
at transportation.alberta.ca or by phoning
7804272731 (3100000 toll free in Alberta).
If a forklift operator is handling, offering for

transport or transporting dangerous goods,
the operator must comply with the federal
Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act and
Regulations, which include training requirements.
More information is available at transportation.
alberta.ca or by phoning 18002729600
(or 7804229600 in Edmonton).
These additional pieces of legislation are mentioned

for informational purposes and are not covered in
this guideline.
13
Key elements
of a health
and safety
program
for forklifts
Employers whose work involves the use of forklifts
are encouraged to implement a comprehensive forklift
health and safety program, which includes the following
key elements:

Hazard assessment;
Training and information;
Management, supervision and internal

responsibility (includes forklift selection);
Safe operating procedures;
Forklift maintenance and modification;
Facility design; and
Preventing injuries to muscles, joints and bones.
TIP CAN-CSA B335-04, Safety standard for lift trucks,

available from the Canadian Standards Association, is a
useful resource for any Alberta workplace implementing a
forklift safety program.
TIP If you require more information and assistance on

implementing an effective health and safety management
system for your organization, contact a Partnerships in
Health and Safety Program Certifying Partner. A list of
Certifying Partners is available at worksafe.alberta.ca or by
calling 1-866-415-8690.
14
Hazard assessment
Facility design
Hazards should be identified and assessed so that

appropriate controls can be put in place to prevent
workers from being harmed by forklifts.
Employers should design and maintain the work

environment to reduce the likelihood of incidents
involving forklifts.
Section 4 of this best practices guideline provides a

description of considerations for the assessment of
hazards related to forklifts.
Section 9 of this guideline provides a description of

considerations for facility design.
Training and information

Providing training and information for forklift
operators and those who work near forklifts about the
hazards associated with the work and how to protect
themselves and others is a critical step in ensuring
safety.
considerations for training.
Preventing injuries to muscles,

joints and bones
Employers should create a healthy work environment
that prevents repetitive strain (or musculoskeletal)
injuries.
considerations for preventing injuries to the muscles,
joints and bones of forklift operators.
Management, supervision
and internal responsibility
Effective management and supervision begins by
appointing competent managers and supervisors.
considerations for effective management, supervision
and internal responsibility. Forklift selection is also
covered in this section.
Safe operating procedures

Employers should establish safe work practices for all
work involving forklifts, including pre-use inspections
and refueling.
considerations for safe operating procedures.
Forklift maintenance and modification

Employers should prepare rules and procedures for
proper testing, maintenance, repair and modification
of forklifts, including rules governing the qualifications
of persons authorized to carry out these activities.
Section 8 of this guideline provides a description
of considerations for forklift maintenance and
modification.
SECTION 3: Key elements of a health and safety program
15
Hazard
assessment
Assessing worksite hazards before work begins is a
requirement under section 7 of the Occupational Health
and Safety Code.
In assessing the hazards, employers must:

Identify how workers who operate or work around

forklifts may be harmed, taking into consideration
the equipment that will be used, the jobs to be done
and the workplace environment.
Prepare a written report specifying the existing and

potential hazards identified. The written report
can be useful in providing complete and consistent
information to workers about the hazards
associated with their work.
Reassess the sources of harm if any element of the

work, such as equipment, workers, loads or work
environment changes in a significant way, and
make appropriate changes to the written report on
hazards, as necessary.
Techniques used to identify hazards may include

seeking advice from safety associations or other
specialists, talking with supervisors and workers,
reviewing information from manufacturers and
reviewing work processes. It is particularly valuable to
analyze past incidents and injury data.
A sample approach to assessing hazards follows.
In addition to the hazard assessment process described
above, forklift operators must complete a pre-use
forklift inspection at the start of every work shift.
Refer to page 37 of this guideline for more information
about pre-use inspections.
16
Step 1: Identifying hazards

On the hazard identification checklist, check off all the
existing and potential hazards that are present at your
work site. Add any identified hazards specific to your
work site to the list.
Hazard Identification Form (Sample)

XYZ Cargo Carriers
Location: Stony Creek, Alberta
December 1, 2010
Completed by: Will B. Safe
Company:
Date:
Physical Hazards
Chemical Hazards
Other
Check off all hazards or potential

hazards at your work site.
Identify the types of chemicals and

check off all hazards or potential
Add any additional identified hazards

specific to your work site that are not
already listed.
x Lifting and handling loads
x Propane (fuel)
by hand
x Repetitive motion
Slipping and tripping
Workplace violence
Working alone
Loading/unloading trucks
Battery charging

or trailers
Shifting of boxes or
loads being lifted by forklift
Equipment hazards
Faulty brakes/hydraulic lines
Dirty or frosty windows
Other vehicles
x Pedestrian traffic
Other:
SECTION 4: Hazard Assessment
Psychosocial Hazards
Working conditions
Fatigue
Stress
Other:
17
Step 2: Hazard assessment

and control sheet
Take the hazards identified on the checklist above and
list them on the hazard assessment and control sheet.
Identify the controls that are in place: engineering,
administrative, personal protective equipment (PPE)
or a combination for each hazard.

Set priorities.
Where controls are identified that are not in place,

develop an action plan to ensure they are completed.
Hazard Assessment and Control Sheet (Sample)

HAZARD
Adjusting materials
on pallets (lifting and
handling, repetitive
motion).
Operating the forklift

(equipment hazards,
repetitive motions).
Entering and exiting

the forklift (slipping
and tripping).
Fueling the forklift

(propane).
CONTROLS
IN PLACE (LIST)
ADMINISTRATIVE:
ADMINISTRATIVE:
ENGINEERING:
ADMINISTRATIVE:
PRIORITY TO
IMPLEMENT
CONTROL
Low
Medium
DUE DATE
x High
Review forklift training
records to ensure
affected workers
have received training
appropriate to this
hazard.
December 1
PERSON
RESPONSIBLE
Will B.
FOLLOW-UP
ACTION(S)
FOR CONTROLS
NOT IN PLACE
18
Ergonomics training for Forklift operators

forklift operators, other to be trained in the
workers and supervisors. safe operation of the
forklift they are using.
PPE:
Wear applicable PPE
that is required in the
area the forklift is
operating in.
Grab bars and/or

running boards, if
applicable.
Follow manufacturer
specifications (i.e.
turn off vehicle,
no smoking, etc.),
ADMINISTRATIVE:
Safe work procedures WHMIS training.
three points of contact.
PPE:
Non slip footwear.
Low
Medium
x High
x Low
Low
Medium
High
Medium
High
Review forklift training

records to ensure
affected workers have
received training.
Inspect all forklifts

to ensure grab bars
or running boards are
adequate for the type
of forklift.
Review WHMIS
training records to
ensure all staff have
training appropriate
to this hazard.
December 1
December 1
December 1
Will B.
Kim M.
Will B.
Hazard Identification Form (Template)

Company:
Date:
Location:
Completed by:
Physical Hazards
Chemical Hazards
Other

Identify the types of chemicals and

check off all hazards or potential
Add any additional identified hazards

specific to your work site that are not
already listed.
Lifting and handling loads

by hand
Repetitive motion
Slipping and tripping
Workplace violence
Working alone
Loading/unloading trucks
Propane (fuel)
Battery charging

or trailers
Shifting of boxes or
loads being lifted by forklift
Equipment hazards
Faulty brakes/hydraulic lines
Dirty or frosty windows
Other vehicles
Pedestrian traffic
Other:
SECTION 4: Hazard Assessment
Psychosocial Hazards
Working conditions
Fatigue
Stress
Other:
19
Hazard Assessment and Control Sheet (Template)

HAZARD
CONTROLS
IN PLACE (LIST)
ENGINEERING:
ENGINEERING:
ENGINEERING:
ENGINEERING:
ADMINISTRATIVE:
ADMINISTRATIVE:
ADMINISTRATIVE:
ADMINISTRATIVE:
PPE:
PPE:
PPE:
PPE:
PRIORITY TO
IMPLEMENT
CONTROL
Low
Low
Medium
Low
Medium
High
Low
Medium
High
Medium
High
High
FOLLOW-UP
ACTION(S)
FOR CONTROLS
NOT IN PLACE
20
DUE DATE
PERSON
RESPONSIBLE
Worker
training and
competency
Ensuring that workers are trained and competent are
requirements under section 15 of the Occupational
Health and Safety Regulation, and sections 211.1 and
256 of the Occupational Health and Safety Code.
An employer must ensure that workers who are

assigned to operate forklifts are competent and
qualified to do so. To fulfill these obligations, an
employer should establish the competence of workers
who will operate forklifts before assigning a worker
to operate a forklift, and ensure that workers have
achieved and can demonstrate the appropriate
competencies.
A competent operator knows how to operate the
particular class of forklift assigned, understands
the hazards associated with the work involved, and
is capable of operating the forklift in a manner that
protects his or her own health and safety along with
the health and safety of others in the workplace.
Establishing the competence

of operators
To establish a workers competence to operate a forklift,
an employer should ensure that the worker:

Has been informed of the hazards associated with

operating a forklift in the particular workplace,
including the hazards associated with the load, the
design of the workplace, and the environmental
conditions.
21
Knows how to protect him/herself and others from

the hazards.
any necessary corrective actions regarding pre-use

inspection, startup and operation of the forklift.
Has demonstrated to a designated skilled and

experienced person that the skills and knowledge
identified as final outcomes for operator
competency have been learned.
Employers may choose to have training conducted

by external trainers such as an industry health and
safety association or a training company. Alternatively,
training may be done in-house if there is an adequately
qualified trainer. In-house trainers, in addition to being
fully competent in training of workers and operating
forklifts, must keep current on legislation, equipment
changes, etc.
The employer should develop an evaluation system to

ensure ongoing competency of operators. This should
include, but not be limited to, testing on operation of the
forklift, knowledge and skill level regarding the forklift
and company policy and procedures relating to forklift
operations. This evaluation should assess the need for
further training, training updates or refresher courses.
Employers may consult a safety association or the
forklift manufacturer for information on institutions,
agencies or people with expert knowledge of forklifts.
Employers should maintain in the workplace a record
of workers competent to operate forklifts. For each
worker, the record should indicate the skills and
knowledge demonstrated, the class or classes of forklift
on which the operator was trained and assessed, the
name and affiliation of the trainer/assessor, the date the
training/assessment took place, and training certificate
expiry dates if applicable. Employers may provide
operators with certificates of competency.
Forklift operator training courses should typically be
full day in duration, i.e., at least seven hours of actual
training time, and consisting of a balance between
classroom theory and hands-on practical training.
While operators of forklifts must always be competent
to work safely, as required by the OHS legislation, it
is a best practice that operators of forklifts receive
retraining at intervals not exceeding three years.
Workers should also be retrained when equipment is
modified, new equipment is introduced, when there
are changes to the environment, and when there are
changes to applicable legislation. Retraining should be
consistent with the employers forklift safety program
and applicable legislation.
Eighteen months after training or retraining, a midterm skills evaluation should be conducted to re-assess
the operators practical skills. The goal of this midterm evaluation is to give the operator feedback for
22
A forklift operators training should be documented and

records made available to a government occupational
health and safety officer whenever requested. All
operator training and evaluation should be conducted
by individuals who have the appropriate knowledge,
training and experience to train forklift operators and
evaluate their competence.
Even though training can be acquired from outside
agencies, employers are still responsible to ensure
forklift operators are competent in their work
environment with the forklifts they operate.
Some examples of when a refresher course should be
given to operators are:

Operator has been observed operating the forklift

in an unsafe manner.
Operator has been involved in an incident.
Operator receives an evaluation that indicates he

or she has operated the forklift unsafely.
Operator is assigned a different type or class of

forklift.
Environmental conditions in the workplace

change, which may affect the safe operation of
the forklift. Examples include introduction of a
flammable environment, introduction of additional
forklifts or other equipment, etc.
A sample performance test for forklift operators

is included on page 22.
If a medical condition affects a workers ability to

operate a forklift safely, the worker should not be
assigned to operate a forklift.
Knowledge and skills required

to be competent
Knowledge A competent forklift operator understands:
See pages 2631 for a detailed listing of

required skills.
The sections of the Occupational Health and Safety

Act, Regulation and Code applicable to the work.
The hazards associated with both the work being

done and with the operation of forklifts.
The principles of selection, operation, features,

and limitations of the forklift.
The workplace conditions and environment.
Which workplace activities pose actual or potential

danger to worker health and safety.
The manufacturers specifications related to the

operation and safe load handling for the classes or
types of forklifts operated.
The procedures and practices for ensuring worker

health and safety that are specific to the workplace.
Training on the Workplace Hazardous Materials

Information System (WHMIS).
Training on Transportation of Dangerous Goods

if handling, offering for transport or transporting
dangerous goods (falls outside the scope of this
guideline).
Operational maintenancerefueling or recharging,

and checking and refilling fluids, as appropriate.
Employers must ensure the

health and safety of all workers
Employers should inform and instruct pedestrians,
workers, supervisors, visitors and others in the
workplace who will be around forklifts about the
hazards, the rules and procedures they are to follow
to avoid harm, and the location of the written rules
and procedures. Employers should also ensure that
supervisors and workers are informed of any changes to
the rules and procedures.
See pages 2325 for a detailed listing of

required knowledge.
Skills A competent forklift operator should be able

to perform the following procedures in a manner
consistent with the competence standards using the
assigned forklift under typical workplace conditions:

Pre-operational check (see page 37).
Start-up and shut-down.
General operationstopping, starting, turning,

driving forward and in reverse with or without a
load, parking, and operating around personnel.
Load handlingselection and security of loads,

pick-up and placement, personnel lifting, stacking
and unstacking, and handling specific to docks,
trucks or rail cars.
Loading and unloadingtransport vehicles,

structures and elevators.
SECTION 5: Worker training and competency
23
Performance Test for Forklift Operators (Sample)

Operators name:
Date:
OK
TASK
NOT
APPLICABLE
NEEDS
TRAINING
Conducted pre-operational check.

Showed familiarity with the controls.
Properly used seat belt or other restraining device.
Started and stopped smoothly.
Slowed down at intersections. Sounded horn at intersections.
Obeyed all traffic signals.
Planned route ahead, checked doorways. Kept a clear view of direction of travel.
Turned corners correctly. Aware of rear end swing.
Drove under control and within proper traffic aisles.
Yielded to pedestrians.
Drove straight up and straight down inclined surfaces, with and without loads.
Properly drove backwards when required. Sounded horn
before reversing (unless if forklift equipped with backup alarm).
Approached load properly. Forks under load all the way, and centered.
Lifted load properly. Load balanced properly and secured.
Lowered load smoothly and slowly.
Maneuvered with load properly. Travelled with load at proper

height (approximately 10 cm above surface).
Inspected bridge plates and dock boards.

Made sure truck/trailer wheels were chocked/wedged.
Placed load within marked area. Stacked load evenly and neatly.
Parked properly, neutralized all controls, lowered forks to ground,
set the brake, and turned off the engine.
Assessed by:
24
Signature:
Knowledge to be Acquired
Features of the forklift
Features of the forklift
INSTRUCTIONAL
OBJECTIVE
Applicable sections of the

Occupational Health and Safety
Act, Regulation and Code.
Federal Transportation of Dangerous
Goods legislation may also be relevant,
but is not included.
Principles of operation and features
Manufacturers specifications
FINAL
OUTCOME
A competent operator
knows/understands:
knows/understands:
knows/understands:
KNOWLEDGE
Applicable legislation
A workers duties
A workers duty to refuse
unsafe work
An employers duties to
protect workers
How to ensure the health

and safety of other workers
in the area
Requirements of lifting devices,

materials handling, motor vehicles,
and traffic control
Requirements related to the

handling of loads
Requirements for personal

protective equipment
Classifications and designations

Stability triangle and trapezoid
What is meant by load centres
Centre of gravity of load
Longitudinal and lateral stability
Centre of gravity of forklift
Effects of speed, acceleration,
Where to find the

operators manual
The operating information

outlined in the manual
The pre-operational and

maintenance tasks described
in the operators manual
sharp cornering, height, attachment,

grades/ramps and load security
Operator blind spots associated

with the design of the forklift, its
components, permanent equipment
and attachments
Main components of the forklift with

emphasis on the lifting/handling
systems and their basic functions
The factors affecting stability, reach/

retract, counterbalance principles, tilt
Location of the capacity plate and

the information outlined on the plate
Model/serial number
Capacity rating at a given load
centre at a given height
Maximum lifting height of

forks/attachment
Weight and minimum battery weight
25
Knowledge to be Acquired (continued)

KNOWLEDGE
Hazards in the workplace
INSTRUCTIONAL
OBJECTIVE
Dangerous activities
FINAL
OUTCOME
A competent operator understands

the dangers of:
Operating with restricted visibility

(blind spots, corners, inspections)
Operating without using a seat belt

or other restraining device
Parking a forklift on an incline

Not stopping before entering
an incline
Travelling over railway tracks

Allowing riders unless there is
an approved passenger seat
Permitting anyone to stand or

walk under loads
Permitting anyone to ride on loads

Not keeping all parts of the
body inside the operators
compartment at all times
Travelling with the load lifted

more than 10 cm above the floor
Dragging the forks when inserting

or withdrawing them from a load

Not tilting the mast back enough
to stabilize the load
Increasing the capacity of the

forklift or overloading the forklift
Using a forklift beyond its

limitations (e.g., a forklift is not a
crane)
Stunt driving and horseplay

Allowing anyone to stand on
Operating with restrictions such

as overhead equipment or other
obstructions, e.g., stationary
building structures
Pedestrian traffic
Workplace noise
Inadequate lighting
Other vehicular traffic
the fork or climb on the upright

assembly
Moving a load with someone

steadying it
Jumping from the forklift in the

event of a tip-over
Uneven surfaces
Operating on a slippery surface
(floors, ramps, dock plate)
Explosive atmospheres
The accumulation of exhaust
emissions (e.g. carbon monoxide)
in restricted spaces such as
railway cars or trucks
26
Workplace specific rules

and procedures
Workplace Hazardous Materials

Information System (WHMIS)
Emergency procedures
A competent operator knows/

understands:
A competent operator knows/

understands the Workplace Hazardous
Materials Information System including:
knows/understands:
The procedures and rules

that have been established by
the employer to ensure safe
operation of forklifts in the
workplace, including rules for
when pedestrians have the rightof-way, signals used to manage
traffic (if any), and rules for
maintenance, testing and repair
of the forklift
How to read and understand supplier

labels and materials safety data
sheets
Knowing the hazards of, and how to

work safely with, controlled products
related to the operation of the forklift,
being transported by the forklift, and
in the area the forklift is operating.
The emergency procedures

applicable to the work site as
defined by the employer
How to operate the particular type

or class of fire extinguisher in the
workplace
In case of forklift tip-over:

Keep seat belt fastened
Dont jump
Hold on tight to steering wheel
Brace feet
Lean away from impact
Lean forward
27
Skills to be Acquired
General Operation
General Operation
TASKS TO BE
ASSESSED
Pre-operational check
(circle check)
Start-up
Starting, stopping and turning
FINAL
OUTCOME
Before operating a forklift,

a competent operator:
A competent operator:
SKILL
General Operation
Carries out a visual inspection

of the forklift and its attachments
to ensure that the equipment
is in good operating condition,
using a checklist provided by
the employer
Follows recommended procedures

for daily inspections of fluid levels
Uses the correct mounting

procedures
Assumes the appropriate driving

position
Ensures transmission/directional
control lever is in neutral
Ensures parking brakes

are applied
Activates start button/switch

Ensures warning system
is operating
28
Fastens seat belt (or uses

other restraining device)
before operating the forklift
Starts and stops safely with

and without a load
Allows sufficient room for

turning corners
Operates at low speed

when turning
Uses appropriate steering

techniques when turning in
confined and limited spaces
General Operation
General Operation
Shut-down and parking
Forward and reverse driving on level ground
Brings the forklift to a complete

stop, sets the parking brake and
returns transmission/directional
control lever to neutral
Lowers forks to the ground and

tilts them forward
Uses appropriate shut-down

procedures and turns off power
supply
Chocks wheels if there is a risk of

the forklift moving
Keeps all parts of the body inside the operators compartment at all times
Ensures clear visibility in the intended direction of travel
If visibility is restricted by the load being carried, drives the forklift in reverse
or asks to be guided by another worker
Keeps the load-engaging means or the load itself low (usually within 10 cm
of the floor/surface and tilted backward)
Keeps safe operating distance from other lifting devices, pedestrians,

structures and machinery
Observes traffic management procedures as established by

the employer
Drives at an appropriate speed, taking into consideration the type

of device, the load, the pedestrian traffic along the travel route, any
obstructions and the condition of the driving surface
Adjusts fork arms and attachments appropriately to maintain load stability

Observes weight restrictions for floors and freight elevators
Takes appropriate action when encountering restrictions such as overhead
equipment and other obstructing stationary structures
29
Skills to be Acquired (continued)

General Operation
Load Handling
TASKS TO BE
ASSESSED
Forward and reverse driving on

inclines, ramps or uneven terrain
Operating around personnel
Selection of loads
FINAL
OUTCOME
Before picking up a load, a

competent operator:
SKILL
General Operation
When not carrying a load, travels

forward down an incline and travels
in reverse up an incline
When carrying a load, travels in

reverse down an incline and travels
forward up an incline
Ensures that there is sufficient

clearance for the forklift and load
prior to travelling on an incline or
uneven terrain
Does not turn the forklift around

on a ramp or incline
Drives at an appropriate speed

taking into consideration the
effects of the slope of the driving
surface on the forklift and load
security
Always faces the direction

of travel
When turning, ensures no

personnel are within the forklifts
danger zone
Observes employers policy for

ensuring the safety of pedestrians
If stopped at an intersection,
does not move until eye contact
is made with any personnel or
operators of other vehicles at the
intersection
Maintains a safe distance from
Assesses the weight distribution

of the load and identifies
limitations of the structures where
the load is to be placed
Ensures that the load is within

the rated capacity for the forklift,
taking into account the job to be
done
Checks forks/attachments to
ensure that they are safe to use
with respect to the equipments
capacity rating
pedestrians
Approaches the grade straight on,

not on an angle
Operates in appropriate gear

Ensures visibility is clear in the
direction of travel
Verifies that the incline does not

exceed the maximum permissible
slope
30
Load Handling
Load Handling
Load Handling
Load pick up and placement
Load security and integrity
Personnel lifting, lowering

and supporting
Checks overhead clearance

Ensures safe distance from any
live power source
Engages at least two-thirds of

the load length to be lifted and
centres load evenly on forks
Adjusts the tilting angle of the

mast, height of fork arms and
reach extension to stabilize load
Ensures no unsecured articles are

lying on top of the load
Does not drag the forks when

inserting or withdrawing them
from a load
Does not raise or lower loads

while forklift is in motion
Observes the limits for

freestanding stack height
Ensures the load is secure and

balanced before lifting
Ensures forklift meets prescribed

requirements
Uses only a platform specifically

designed for use with a forklift and
equipped with a guardrail
Ensures that the platform is

secured to the mast as prescribed
Raises and lowers the platform

to test its operation before
allowing a worker on it
Ensures that the person on the

platform dons the necessary
personal protective equipment
and is secured as prescribed
Keeps the upright in a vertical

position
Remains at the controls at all

times while a worker is on the
platform
Does not travel with a worker

on the platform
Ensures the safety of pedestrians

in the area
31
Skills to be Acquired (continued)

Loading and unloading
TASKS TO BE
ASSESSED
Loading trucks and railway cars
Transporting loads in elevators
Unloading
FINAL
OUTCOME
Before entering any truck, trailer or

railway boxcar, with or without a load,
a competent operator:
SKILL
Ensures that the vehicle being

loaded is adequately restrained to
prevent movement
of supporting the loaded forklift
Before entering, makes sure

the elevator floor is level with the
building floor
Inspects floors for stability and

integrity
If applicable, waits for the signal
Ensures that the dock/bridge plate

is designed to support the mass of
the loaded forklift
Ensures that no other person
Ensures that the dock/bridge plate

is firmly in position
Ensures the trailer is properly

supported by a jack stand where
appropriate (e.g. when not
connected to the tractor)
32
Ensures the elevator is capable
from the elevator operator before

entering
remains on the elevator with
a forklift and load
Sets the brakes on, lowers the

load to the floor, places controls
in neutral, shuts off the power and
gets off the forklift
Verifies that the structure where

the load has to be placed is able
to carry the weight of the load
When placing or stacking

loads, does not block access
to fire extinguishers, exits,
stairways, eye wash stations,
emergency shutoff switches,
first aid kits, etc.
When stacking loaded pallets,

ensures the load at the bottom is
secure and leveled
Does not exceed the pallet

stacking limit for the type of
materials contained on the pallets
Tilts load forward to level position

Exits with forks level
Operational maintenance
Refueling and recharging
A competent operator is trained to

perform routine maintenance safely
and given the responsibility to do so:
Follow the manufacturers

specifications and employers
procedures for safe refueling and
recharging of the forklift including:
Wearing the appropriate

personal protective
equipment, including eye
protection
Properly positioning and

securing the forklift
Observing workplace
precautions with respect to
fire hazards
33
Management,
supervision
and internal
responsibility
Employers should appoint as supervisors of forklift
operations, individuals who have the appropriate
competencies. These individuals should know the
hazards associated with the type of forklift being used,
the loads being handled and the environment in which
the forklift will be operated. Supervisors should know
all of their employers occupational health and safety
policies and procedures. They should also be able to
monitor and assess the safety of forklift operations,
including having the ability to identify unsafe
conditions and apply corrective measures.
Supervisors should be encouraged to watch for unsafe
conditions and correct them immediately when they are
detected. It is recommended that supervisors of forklilft
operations complete a forklift training course.
Internal responsibility can be achieved by involving
workplace parties in managing the safety of forklift
operations. To promote internal responsibility, the
employer may involve the health and safety committee,
health and safety representatives, supervisors and
workers in identifying workplace hazards, developing
rules and procedures to prevent injuries, identifying
causes of incidents or near misses, and monitoring
forklift safety improvements.
34
Forklift selection
The proper class of forklifts should be selected
based on criteria, which includes ensuring:

That the carrying capacity, reach capabilities and

the features of the forklift selected to do a job are
suitable for the types of loads to be handled, the
terrain over which loads will be carried and the
design of the workplace.
That the fire hazard designation of the forklift

selected to do a job are suitable for the atmospheric
conditions in the workplace (see section on Fire
hazard designation to the right).
Operators are protected against falling or intruding

materials by means of suitable screens, guards,
grills or structures.
Every forklift clearly displays a load chart showing

the maximum rated load and the variation of the
rated safe load capacity with the reach of the
forklift. If the forklift has been modified, the chart
must reflect any changes to load ratings.
Forklifts are equipped with warning devices

and lights that are appropriate for the work
environment.
Where a seat belt or other restraining device is

likely to contribute to the safety of the operator,
the forklift is equipped with a seat belt, or other
restraining device.
Where a forklift has a rollover protective structure

(ROPS), the forklift is equipped with a seat belt or
other restraining device that prevents the operator
from being thrown out of the protective structure.
NOTE: You are not permitted to fabricate your own

equipment attachments unless the design is certified
by a professional engineer.
EQUIPMENT ATTACHMENTS: Examples

Drum clamp
Carpet boom
Fire hazard designation If fire or explosion

hazards exist in the workplace, an employer must
classify worksites in accordance with Part 10 of the
Occupational Health and Safety Code.
Forklifts used in hazardous locations must comply
with Part 10 of the Code. An employer may work with
a forklift supplier to select a suitable forklift with
the necessary safety features such as a built-in flame
arresting device.
If an employer purchases a used forklift, there is a

possibility there may be some missing components
or missing safety features. It is the employers
responsibility to ensure that if a used forklift is
purchased, it is maintained and meets manufacturer
specifications before the forklift is put into operation.
If equipment attachments are usede.g., carton, drum
or paper roll clamp, push pull or rotator attachment,
carpet boom, fork extensions, etc.request an updated
load chart from the attachment supplier, forklift
manufacturer or supplier, or have one developed by a
professional engineer.
SECTION 6: Management, supervision and internal responsibility
35
Safe
operating
procedures
Issues related to work practices and traffic management
have been contributing factors in a number of fatalities
and critical injuries involving forklifts.
Therefore, as a minimum, employers should ensure
compliance with the following requirements:
36
Forklift operators must be qualified to use the

type(s) of forklifts being used.
Forklifts fitted with rollover protective structure

(ROPS) must have seat belts or other restraining
devices designed to prevent the operator from
being thrown out of the rollover protective
structure.
Forklift operator must use a seat belt, or other

restraining device if the forklift is equipped with
ROPS, when operating the forklift.
No part of a load may pass over any worker.
No load may exceed the maximum rated

load capacity.
All loads must be handled in accordance with

the height and weight restrictions on the forklifts
load chart.
When a load is in the raised position, the controls

must be attended by an operator.
If an operator does not have a clear view of the

path, assistance from a signaler who has been
instructed in a code of signals for managing traffic
in the workplace should be employed.
Loads should be carried as close to the ground

or floor as the situation safely permits.
Loads that may tip or fall and endanger a worker

must be secured.
Where there is a potential for suspended loads

to shift, all immediate zones below must be
barricaded to prevent potential worker exposure
to the danger of falling objects.
No part of operators body should extend beyond

the side of the forklift while in operation.
The employer must ensure that operators stack

materials in such a way that the materials are
vertical and stable, and cannot fall into a walkway
if bumped.
Passengers are not allowed in the forklift while in

operation unless the forklift is specifically designed
with a passenger seat.
Where a forklift is required to enter or exit a vehicle

to load or unload, the vehicle must be immobilized
and secured against accidental movement.
If the movement of a load or any part of the forklift

creates a danger to workers, the employer must
ensure that workers never remain within range
of the moving load.
If workers cannot use designated walkways,

then safe work procedures must be used to
protect workers who enter areas where forklifts
are operating.
As far as reasonably practicable, employers should

restrict pedestrian access to areas where forklifts
are operating.
The forklift operator is responsible for the

safety of other workers in the vicinity of the
operating forklift.
Workers in the vicinity of a forklift must be aware

of the forklifts path of travel and avoid contact
with the forklift at all times.
If a forklift operator believes that the load being

moved is unsafe, the operator must exercise
work refusal protocols as per section 35 of the
Occupational Health and Safety Act.
A forklift must not be used to support, raise or

lower a worker unless the work is carried out in a
fork-mounted work platform which complies with
the OHS Code, and personnel on the work platform
comply with the requirements for fall protection
under the OHS Code (refer to section 2 of this
document for references to legislation).
See diagram on page 36 of fork-mounted work
platform.
Barriers, warning signs, designated walkways

or other safeguards should be provided where
pedestrians may be exposed to the risk of collision
with a forklift.
Maintain sufficient air quality in areas where
internal combustion engine powered forklifts
are used, to control carbon monoxide and carbon
dioxide hazards.
If attachments are used, forklift operators must

receive specific training on how to safely use the
different types of attachments for their forklifts.
Operational controls on equipment must be

properly identified to indicate the nature and
function of the controls.
A forklift left unattended must be immobilized and

secured against accidental movement, and forks,
buckets or other attachments should be in the
lowered position or be firmly supported.
All load weight information either through
manifest or appropriate calculations specified
by competent persons should be made readily
available to the forklift operator before the start of
lifting operations.
SECTION 7: Safe operating procedures
In addition to the safe operating procedures above, each

workplace should develop and implement a set of rules
and safe operating procedures to address the specific
hazards in the workplace. Safe operating procedures
may include everything covered throughout this best
practices guideline plus:

Battery handling and charging, and how to handle

spills of battery electrolyte, if applicable.
Propane or other fuel handling, if applicable.
Use of equipment attachments, if applicable.
The use of load charts.
Use of personal protective equipment such as

safety footwear, safety glasses, gloves, hard hats
and hearing protection, where applicable.
37
Refueling
Refueling should be done in an area with adequate
ventilation to prevent the accumulation of flammable
vapours. Open flames in the refueling area are prohibited.
An appropriate class and size fire extinguisher
must be in close proximity to the refueling operation
and the operator must be trained on how to use the
fire extinguisher.
The forklift must be turned off, properly parked and the
operator out of the forklift during refueling.
FORK-MOUNTED
WORK PLATFORM:
Basic Safety Features
Guardrails to protect
workers from falling.
Forklifts must be refueled by trained personnel.

Minimum training will include the manufacturers
specifications for the forklifts refueling process plus
the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information
System (WHMIS).
Pre-use inspection
The forklift operator must complete the
pre-operation daily checklist at the beginning of
every shift. See page 37 for a sample daily checklist.
Load capacity rating.
Screen to protect
workers from
forklifts mast.
Platform securely
attaches to forklift.
Manufacturer or engineer-approved
anchor point(s) to attach CSA approved
shock-absorbing safety lanyard and full
body harness for fall arrest and restraint.
38
Pre-Operation Daily Checklist (Sample)

Forklift No.:
Date:
Make:
Shift:
OK
MAINTENANCE
REQUIRED
Is the forklifts appearance in good condition and clean?

Is the manufacturers capacity plate clean and readable?
Check lift chains for equal tension, broken pins and extra wear.
Check the forks for damage.
Check for loose bolts and cracks on overhead guard, back rest and tilt cylinders.
Are the hydraulic hoses in good condition?
Check tires for cracks or other signs of wear. If inflatable tires, does air pressure
meet the manufacturers specifications?
Do the lights and horn work?
Check that the parking brake is working properly.
Check that the seat is in good condition and the seat belt is working properly.
Any signs of oil, coolant or fuel leaks under the forklift?
Check the fluid levels for the brake fluid, engine oil, hydraulic tank and coolant.
Start the engine and check the dashboard gauges for proper readings.
Make sure there is no excessive free play in the steering wheel.
Do the mast and forks raise, lower and tilt smoothly?
Check that the clutch engages properly. Does it shift roughly?
Hold the brake pedal down for 10 seconds. Is there any noticeable
drift with the pressure?
If an electric forklift, is the battery in good condition and charged?
Are all connections tight? Is the discharge indicator showing sufficient charge
when you turn the key?
Operator name:
SECTION 7: Safe operating procedures
Signature:
39
Equipment
maintenance
and
modification
Employers must maintain in sound mechanical
condition any forklifts provided to workers and a
competent person must carry out the maintenance.
Any repairs or modifications to any forklift should not
reduce the safety factor. To achieve these objectives,
employers should:

Ensure any modifications, repairs and additions

that affect capacity or safe operation of the forklift
are performed with the written approval of the
manufacturer or a professional engineer qualified
in that field of work. Where such modifications or
additions are performed, capacity, operation and
maintenance instruction plates, tags or decals
must be changed accordingly.
Prepare and enforce rules for inspection, testing

and maintenance:
Prepare written instructions on the nature
and frequency of inspections, testing and
maintenance, taking into account the work to be
done and the environmental conditions to which
the forklifts will be exposed. These instructions
should be at least equivalent to the minimum
requirements established by the manufacturer.
They should require verification of the lifting
capabilities of the forklift before it is used for the
first time. They should also contain a schedule
for monitoring the forklifts lifting capabilities,
its mechanical fitness and vehicle emissions.
40
Allow inspection, testing or maintenance to

be performed only by persons whose training
and experience provide them with sufficient
knowledge on such activities and ensure that
they comply with the written instructions.
Allow only qualified, trained and experienced
people such as the manufacturers
representative or a qualified maintenance
technician to perform any repair, modification
or replacement of any part of a forklift.
Ensure a record is kept at the workplace of
any inspection, testing, maintenance, repair or
modification to the forklift and the name and
qualifications of the person who did the work.

Best practices with respect to forklift

maintenance include:
Following the forklift manufacturers
specifications, including additional
maintenance at 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 hours
intervals by a qualified mechanic.
Conducting hydraulic system and mast
inspections including an annual lifting
capacity check.
Conducting fork inspections including:
1. checks for surface cracks,
2. checks for straightness of blade and shank,
3. checks for angle of blade to shank,
4. check for difference in height of fork tips,
5. inspection of positioning lock (when
originally provided),
6. check for wear, and
7. check for legibility of fork markings
(when originally provided).
Where a supplier is responsible for maintenance

of the forklift, an employer should ask the supplier
for a written testing and maintenance schedule so
compliance with the schedule can be monitored.
SECTION 8: Equipment maintenance and modification
41
Facility design
Well designed workplaces contribute to the prevention
of incidents and injuries. Therefore, employers should:

Ensure that overhead and side clearances in aisles,

loading docks and doorways are adequate to permit
safe operation of the forklift and to accommodate
the load being moved.
Ensure that the forklifts travel path is kept clear

and free of hazards.
Ensure the workplace is ventilated properly to

prevent accumulation of gases and vapours.
In addition, adequate lighting must be provided wherever

forklifts are operating. A preferred method is for the
facility itself to have adequate lighting. In the event that
it isnt practical for the facility to have adequate lighting,
the forklift itself must be equipped with lighting that
illuminates the working area and the forklifts control panel.
Pedestrians and workers in the vicinity of forklift
operations must be kept safe:

Pedestrians must wear a piece of highly visible clothing.
A facility where forklifts are operating must include

designated walkways that separate pedestrians from
forklift traffic. The designated walkways should be
clearly visible to pedestrians by using methods such as
physically separated walkways or highly visible floor
markings. If designated walkways are not practical,
safe work procedures may be used as an alternative.
Ensure that any storage racks being used are safely laid
out, suitable for the type of forklift(s) being used, and
suitable, strong and sturdy enough for the loads being
supported.
Outdoor yards and construction sites have additional
hazards that must be controlled, including safe paths of
travel, smooth surfaces and adequate lighting.
42
Preventing
injuries to
muscles, joints
and bones
To effectively prevent injuries to a workers
muscles, joints and bones, also known as preventing
musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs), it is important to
understand the risk factors that can lead to injury.
It is also important to understand that any combination
of risk factors increases the overall risk of injury.
Common risk factors include:

Awkward or sustained postures;
Forceful exertions;
Repetitive motions; and
Exposure to vibration.
Awkward or sustained postures occur when

a worker adopts a non-neutral body posture while
performing work duties for extended or repeated
periods of time.
A neutral posture is a relaxed body sitting upright
with the arms hanging comfortably at either side.
Some non-neutral postures typical of forklift operation
include: frequent bending and twisting of multiple
body parts in attempts to gain better visibility of
the work at hand (looking up, down, to the side,
backwards, etc.) while operating the forklifts controls,
and straining to reach controls or pedals that are not
comfortably within reach.
43
Reducing non-neutral postures will reduce the risk of

injury and can be achieved by:

Adjusting the forklifts operators seat, to ensure

workers are not straining to do everyday activities.
Bringing movements closer to the centerline of the

workers body to increase the workers control over
body movement.
Installing mirrors or other equipment to reduce the

amount of head movement required.
Forceful exertions occur when the operator adopts

actions that have the potential to physically overload his
or her body, such as when a forklift operator jumps out
of the forklift and manually pushes heavy items to line
them up on a pallet.
To reduce the risk of injury, consider decreasing the
physical effort required to perform work by either
getting assistance from another worker or using
equipment to move material.
Repetitive motions occur when a worker physically
performs the same sequence of actions for extended
periods of time with little or no variation in the muscles
used. With repeated exposure, micro-injuries may
accumulate and develop into a serious injury.
To reduce the risk of injury, consider rest breaks for the
forklift operator or job rotation between competently
trained workers throughout the work shift.
Exposure to vibration occurs when there is a direct
transfer of repetitive movements of a machine or tool to a
persons body, such as when a hand tool or heavy machine
shakes repeatedly. When exposed to vibration, the bodys
muscles tighten and blood circulation decreases.
To reduce the risk of injury related to vibration,
consider providing forklifts designed to withstand
vibration and that reduce the amount of vibration
the operator is exposed to, and ensure the forklift is
maintained to reduce vibration. Also consider keeping
floor surfaces smooth to avoid a bumpy ride for the
forklift operator.
For additional information, refer to Workplace Health
and Safety Bulletin: All Shook UpUnderstanding
Vibration, ERG026, employment.alberta.ca/
documents/WHS/WHS-PUB_erg026.pdf
44
Control measures
Control measures to reduce the likelihood of injury are
generally categorized into:

Engineering controls;
Administrative controls; and
Personal protective equipment (PPE).
With respect to forklift operations, the controls that

have the greatest likelihood of reducing the risk of
injury are engineering and administrative controls.
It is preferable to use a combination of these controls
when considering the best method to reduce the risk of
injury. Controls should be used in such a manner that
the physical demands of work are kept within a workers
physical capabilities to work without injury.
Engineering controls Since injuries are more likely
to occur when the physical capabilities of a worker are
exceeded, physical changes to the work environment
are the most effective way to reduce the risk of injury.
Engineering controls should focus on reducing force
and exposure to awkward postures.
With respect to forklifts, it is important to:

Use the correct type of forklift for the job at hand.
Use a forklift with sufficient operator space and

comfort features including well-located hand and
foot controls, clear control panel displays, and
allowance for a good stance of the operator.
Use a forklift that has seat belts installed, or other

restraining device if the forklift is equipped with
ROPS.
When a forklift overturns, the safest place for the

operator is in the cab with his or her seat belt fastened.
There are ergonomic factors to consider regarding seat
belts, as they may affect the comfort of an operator if
they are improperly fitted.
Properly fitted seat belts are crucial to safe forklift
operation. If the seat belt does not fit the operator
properly, it will either be rendered useless, or affect the
operators ability to move within the seat. Preventing
normal operator movement while seated could result in
strain injuries from working against the placement of
the seat belt.
The lap belt should lie across the hips on top of the
thighs. The shoulder belt should lie flat across the
chest, centered between the neck and the edge of
the shoulder. It should not touch or rub against the
operators face or hang loosely over the shoulder. If the
seat belt does not fit the operator properly, adjust the
seat belt height adjuster or have one installed by the
equipment supplier or manufacturer if the forklift is not
already fitted with one.
The table on page 44 outlines possible sources

of injury and practical solutions to reduce the risks
of injury.
Since the purpose of a seat belt is to restrain the

operator in the event of a crash or rollover, it will affect
the operators range of motion. Installing mirrors in the
cabin can reduce the strain of moving against the seat
belt and will also reduce the likelihood of a neck strain
injury because of the decreased need for the operator to
turn his or her head.
Administrative controls should be used to
reduce workers exposure to risks when physical
changes to the work are not practical. Administrative
controls reduce the risk of injury by changing the way
work is performed.
Safe work procedures fall under administrative
controls, as do stretching programs. It is important
to remember that workers need adequate training
and time to adjust to changes in work procedures and
body movements. Supervisors should receive the same
training to properly demonstrate and reinforce the safe
performance of work.
Under an employers safety management system,
employers should identify the kind of injuries workers
could suffer while performing their duties. This
information can be gathered by:

Reviewing previous injury reports.
Considering the risks of injury during worksite

hazard assessments.
Surveying workers about current or past pain

or discomfort.
Personal protective equipment used by forklift

operators should reflect the hazards of the working
environment, and include items such as eye, foot and
hearing protection if necessary.
SECTION 10: Preventing injuries to muscles, joints and bones
45
Forklift Related Musculoskeletal Injuries (MSIs)

Constant gripping over
long periods of forklift
operation.
Prolonged looking
upwards to workers
elevated within the
fork-mounted work
platform.
Prolonged seating.
BODY PART
AFFECTED
Neck
Neck
Hands
Neck,
entire body
Legs
ON-THE-JOB
EXAMPLE
Operator seated
facing load
Removal of load
from shelving
Maneuvering of
forklifts steering
wheel
Monitoring workers
activity while working
above ground level
Forklift operation
POSSIBLE
INJURIES
Over-tilt of neck potential strain
Risk for soft tissue,

tendon and cervical
spine damage
Muscle strain,
tingling of hands
Neck strain,
back injury
Reduced blood to
legs, varicose veins
POSSIBLE
SOLUTIONS
SOURCE
OF INJURY
46
Rack work to include

lifting, inserting,
extracting, and
lowering pallets.
Facing load sideways

while extracting load.
Use of Universal
Stance forklift as
opposed to Sit
Down Counterbalance
forklift
Stand facing the load

using the appropriate
type of forklift
Provide additional
soft-pads, apply rest
breaks, stretching
Consider using
different type of
equipment instead
of forklift
Provide foot rest,

apply rest beaks
and stretching
Neck is rotated
with potential tilting
while looking up to
manipulate the load.
Working with elbows

away from the body.
Driving forklift over

rough terrain.
Shifting head
sideways while moving
equipment backwards.
Awkward gripping of
hand wheels during
forklift operation.
Exposure to
cold environment.
Hands,
arms
Entire body
Neck
Hands
Entire body
Hand grip on
steering wheel
Exposure to vibration
Looking for
pedestrians/objects
while reversing forklift
Turning on corners
Handling cold items

in cold storage/
freezer environment
Tendonitis
Spine shock
Neck and lower

back twisting
Bent wrist causing

pain and discomfort
Numbness
Maintain proper
positioning
Use equipment
designed for rough
terrain, consider air ride
seats, and a quality
seat cushion. Observe
proper equipment
maintenance. Use
vibration-absorbing
material to isolate
vibration from the
hands. Periodic ground
plowing to smooth the
surface. Rest breaks
and stretching
Use correct type of

forklift for the job,
utilize swivel seats
as part of engineering
controls, keep
shoulders in line with
the hips
Grip hand wheels

and maintain posture
keeping the wrist
straight
Wear appropriate
clothing, use forklift
designed for cold
environment
SECTION 10: Preventing injuries to muscles, joints and bones
47
Notes
48
Notes
Notes
49
Notes
50
Notes
Notes
51
ISBN 978-1-4601-1961-7 (print)

ISBN 978-1-4601-1962-4 (online)

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Health & Safety

Forklift Health & Safety Best Practices Guideline

A worker was struck by a chain that dislodged from

A worker was crushed between a tank that was

A worker was crushed

A worker was struck by a

A worker was overcome by

A worker was struck by

A worker was crushed between a forklift that rolled

A review of these and other scenarios involving forklift

Powered forklifts covered in this guideline include

CLASS 1: Electric motor rider trucks

CLASS 3: Electric motor driven hand trucks

Low lift platform

High lift straddle

CLASS 2: Electric motor narrow aisle trucks

CLASS 4 and 5: Internal combustion

High lift straddle

Forklift Health & Safety Best Practices Guideline

Non-powered forklifts covered in this guideline

CLASS 6: Electric and internal combustion

Manual pallet jacks

Sit down rider

CLASS 7: Rough-terrain lift trucks

Vertical mast rough

Employers must ensure the health and safety of

Workers must take reasonable care and cooperate

Suppliers must ensure that forklifts supplied are

Forklift Health & Safety Best Practices Guideline

In accordance with the OHS Regulation:

In accordance with the OHS Code:

Manufacturers specifications Employers

Assessing hazards Employers must assess

Appropriate equipment Employers must

Manufacturers specifications Employers

The employer must ensure that the forklift

Code of Practice/Safe Job Procedures The

Operator Competency Employers must

Training Employers must ensure that workers

OHS CODE, SECTION 44

Danger from movement and securing of

OHS CODE, SECTIONS 189 & 258

Pedestrian traffic Employers must ensure that

Lifting and handling loads Employers

Training and competence Workers must not

Seat belts and control Where powered forklifts

Forklift Health & Safety Best Practices Guideline

Equipment inspection Employers must ensure

OHS CODE, SECTION 265

Warning signal Employers must ensure that,

Falling objects protective structures

Unattended controls Workers operating

Warning Devices The employer must ensure a

OHS CODE, SECTION 263

Windows Employers must ensure that windows

OHS CODE, SECTION 272

Load rating chart Employers must ensure that