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How To Acquire a Forklift Licence In Australia

Forklifts are essential in construction sites and warehouses where people need to lift massive loads. In Australia, forklift operation is considered high-risk work. As such, forklifts can only be operated by highly skilled personnel. The article below discusses how one can acquire a forklift licence and the various safety tips you should observe when operating a forklift.

Eligibility Criteria

People that wish to train as forklift operators should enrol in an accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO). They must:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age.
  2. Be fluent English speakers.
  3. Be permanent residents of the territory they wish to train in. Otherwise, they must prove they are employed in that territory.
  4. Have at least 100 proof of identity points. You will have to present primary identification documents such as birth certificates or passports and secondary documents such as a drivers licence.
  5. Have a Unique Student Identifier (USI).
  6. Be of excellent physical and mental health. 

Types of Forklift Licences

There are two types of forklift licences:

  1. LO licence permits you to operate order picker forklifts only. Order pickers are forklifts designed to hoist or pick items from warehouse racks.
  2. LF licence allows the operator to drive all kinds of forklifts except an order picker. These would include counterbalance, rough terrain, reach, and articulated forklifts. 

Assessment

Forklift training is divided into theory and practical lessons. During theory, you will learn the parts of a forklift, forklift operating mechanism and problems that the forklift might develop. During practical lessons, the trainer will teach you how to operate the forklift and how to maintain a safe work environment. 

Licence Application and Renewal

Once you complete the course, you will receive a statement of attainment from the RTO and a notice of assessment from your trainer. Take these documents and your identification documents to an Australian Post to apply for the forklift licence. You will need to renew the licence every five years.

Forklift Operation Safety Tips 

Below are a few safety tips to observe when operating a forklift; 

  1. Survey the workplace to identify hazards such as narrow hallways, slippery floors and low lying electrical cables.
  2. Inspect the forklift to ensure every part is functional.
  3. Maintain proper communication with other employees on site. For instance, you could use flags or walkie talkies.
  4. Wear personal protective clothing such as boots, gloves and reflector jackets.
  5. Do not attempt to overload the forklift. 

Forklift licences are easy to acquire. Register for training at an RTO, decide which licence you want and have the required documents when applying for the licence. Remember to observe the recommended safety tips.


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