Issue Date:  -  Thursday, 29 July 2004

Clarification of earlier media release on forklifts

It has come to WorkSafe’s attention that one paragraph in a media release issued on July 23, 2004 titled “Warning issued on safe use of forklifts” may be misleading.

The paragraph relates to the fact that WA’s safety and health laws require forklift operators to be formally trained.  It reads:

“Employees need to be at least 17 years of age to operate a forklift, and they must have undergone approved training or be under the supervision of someone who has undergone approved training.”

From the age of 17, employees are permitted to operate forklifts if they are undergoing training or instruction and are under the direct supervision of a competent instructor.

However, for an employee to be allowed to operate a forklift independently, they must be aged at least 18 years and have successfully completed approved training.

Further information on the operation of forklifts can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777 or on the website at www.safetyline.wa.gov.au.