FORKLIFTS - 13.02.2006

The right attachment

So are they permissible?

Forklift trucks are primarily intended for lifting materials and not people. However, they can be used with purpose-designed working platforms to allow people to work-at-height. A non-integrated working platform may be used when it provides a safer means of access than, for example, improvised stairs or platforms or a ladder, or if it is impracticable to use an integrated working platform.

Integrated platforms

Integrated platforms are purpose built for lifting people rather than materials. Ideally you should use one of these if available, but a forklift-based system will be a safe way of working at height provided it’s used properly.

Non-integrated work platforms

Non-integrated working platforms are very simple platforms which can be attached to the forks of a standard forklift truck and used as an access platform. They’re generally constructed in steel with a solid base with waist height edge protection to allow people to work from the platform in safety. They’re controlled completely by the forklift operator, which means those who work from them only need basic training unlike other more complex integrated platforms such as scissor lifts, which are controlled from the raised work platform.

Occasional use.

Regulation 7(2)(b) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 places a duty on employers to select the most suitable work equipment for the task to be carried out, regardless of its duration. A substantial number of serious accidents occur when people are lifted in either bucket attachments or pallets placed onto the forks, neither of which are suitable for people. To encourage safer working practices the occasional use of non-integrated working platforms with forklift trucks is permitted in the UK. However, this should be carried out in accordance with the Health & Safety Executive’s Guidance Note PM28 (3rd edition).

Tip. If you intend to use a non-integrated type of working platform obtain a copy of PM28 by visiting http://www.hse.gov.uk/workplacetransport/pm28.pdf.

Truck/platform compatibility

It’s essential that the working platform is compatible with the truck on which it’s used. Before any combination is used for the first time, contact the working platform and truck manufacturer for their advice on your proposal.

Tip 1.Pre-use checks should be carried out by an authorised person to ensure that the working platform is properly located and secured to the truck each time and before being used. The best person to carry out these checks is the forklift driver, who should have the appropriate skills and knowledge without needing extra training.

Tip 2. If you have a number of forklifts, try to use the same one all of the time. To save time put some markings on the forks to indicate where the platform should sit in order to maintain a consistent feeling for both the driver and whoever is on the platform.

For a free example non-integrated work platform risk assessment visit http://healthandsafety.indicator.co.uk (HS 04.10.05)