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Objective

To provide guidance on safely using forklift work platformsto elevate workers via the lifting ability of a forklift orsimilar industrial truck.

BackgroundUnsafe and/or inadequate systems of work – such asstanding on forklift tynes or pallets, or in an unsuitablestillage – and the improper use of work platforms arecommon causes of serious incidents.

Forklift work platforms should be used to elevate workersto perform short duration tasks where it is not practical touse scaffolding, elevating work platforms or similar devices.

Above:  A work platform specifically designed formounting on the elevating device of a high-lift fork truck.

Australian Standard AS 2359.1: Powered industrial trucks– General requirements provides a minimum standard towhich work platforms should be constructed.

Refer to Figure 1 for an example of a compliant workplatform. SafeWork SA gratefully acknowledges the

permission of Standards Australia to reproduce thisillustration from Australian Standard AS 2359.1.

Risk control measures

Safe work procedures should be developed for tasksinvolving the use of forklift work platforms. Forkliftoperators must:

• be properly trained and hold a high risk work licence

•conduct pre-operational checks before lifting anyperson in a work platform, including ensuring the workplatform is securely attached to the forklift

 

SafeguardHigh Risk Work Forklift work platforms

safe, fair, productive working lives

Figure 1: Compliant work platform

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• ensure the vehicle is parked while workers are on theplatform

• remain at the forklift controls at all times, keepinghands and feet clear of controls other than to lift orlower when required

• ensure all parts of the forklift are clear of overheadobstructions, especially powerlines and overheadelectrical cables

• limit the number of workers on the platform to themanufacturer’s or competent person’s instruction

• erect barriers and signs in areas subject to passingtraffic and ensure nobody stands or passes underthe forklift tynes or platform (whether loaded orempty), unless they are a competent person conductingmaintenance.

The forklift must:

• be parked on a hard level surface, with the handbrake on

• have all controls, other than lift and lower, immobilised

• have the mast vertical and tynes horizontal

• (if hydraulic) be fitted with a flow restrictor to limit thelowering speed in the event of hydraulic failure.

Further information

Code of Practice – Managing the Risks of Plant 

Code of Practice – Managing the Risk of Falls

 AS 2359.1: Powered industrial trucks – General requirements

 AS 2359.2: Powered industrial trucks – Operations

Manufacturer’s operations manual

safe, fair, productive working lives

1300 365 255safework.sa.gov.au

Disclaimer  | While care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and currency of the informationin this publication, at the time of reading it may not be sufficiently accurate, current or completeto suit your individual needs. Reliance on the information in this publication is at your own risk.SafeWork SA accepts no liability for any loss resulting from your reliance on it. To best meet yourwork health and safety obligations refer to current Acts, Regulations and Codes of Practice.

© Government of South Australia, 2015 |  SG0004-1 FEB 2015

This publication is licensed under a Creative CommonsAttribution Australia Licence v3.0. For terms see:

http://creativecommons.org/licences/by/3.0/au/deeden.