Online Forklift Truck Safety Training

25.00+ VAT

Forklift Truck Safety Training

4.6 (110 reviews)

Forklift and Lift Truck Safety Training Course

Unlimited Resits Customer Support Instant Access

£25.00 +VAT per person

Course information

Certificate on Successful Completion
Access course on Desktop, Laptop or Tablet
15 Multiple Choice Questions
Course Duration: 45 Minutes
CPD Points: 1

This online Forklift and Lift Truck Safety Training course provides knowledge of the dangers and hazards surrounding lift trucks and forklift vehicles. These vehicles can be seen as essential for the day to day running of organisations; due to this, it is highly important that all persons who work with lift trucks have been appropriately trained. Being aware of the accidents and injuries these vehicles can cause will help workers to gain awareness on how to implement the correct safety measures and protect themselves from any potential risks or hazards.

This online forklift training course covers a range of topics from legislation, training, to the importance of maintenance on forklift and lift truck vehicles. The learner will have the opportunity to gain knowledge on their specific responsibilities when it comes to operating lift trucks and use that knowledge during real-life working operations.

The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and Provision and use of work equipment regulations 1998 (PUWER) are two important regulations relevant to lift trucks and forklifts. This online forklift course looks at how these regulations play a key role when it comes to lift truck or forklift operations.

Work towards compliance with UK Health and Safety legislation
Train online at your own pace with a full audio voiceover
Assured by RoSPA & Accredited by CPD
Certificate on successful completion
Course duration: 45 minutes
Unlimited resits at no cost

Discounts on Bulk Purchases

Take advantage of our bulk discounts which will reduce your overall cost of training. Better still, any courses you order can be registered to users upto two years later so there's no need to worry about training credits expiring.

Courses Purchased	Discount
10+	10%
20+	20%
50+	30%
75+	40%
100+	50%

Who is this Online Forklift Truck Safety Training for?

If your job involves operating forklifts or lift truck vehicles, then this online forklift certification course will benefit you. It will also benefit those who's job requires them to work in areas where FLTs are operated. It looks at the relevant risks and hazards surrounding lift trucks and how to input the correct safety measures to help protect workers from accidents or injuries.

It also looks at the relevant regulations relating to lifting equipment and why they are important.

Completing this training course alone would not permit staff to operate a FLT. For FLT operators this online course should supplement practical training or provide those working around FLTs with the knowledge and awareness of hazards and how to safely work around FLTs.

Forklift operators often rely on trained banksmen for safe maneuvering—see our Banksman course for more on this critical coordination.

Our Banksman Training course is ideal for situations where forklift operators require the support of a vehicle traffic marshall, providing essential guidance on safe and efficient coordination during vehicle manoeuvring.

Course Screenshots

Course Aim

The aim of this course is to provide a good level of knowledge on forklift and lift truck safety. It is important that thorough training has been completed by all persons who plan to operate a lift truck, and that they are aware of the risks and hazards surrounding these vehicles, or surrounding activities involved with lift trucks.

Learning Objectives Course Content Assessment

Learning Objectives

On completion of the course, you should be able to:

Name some features that are on a lift truck
List what to do before operating a lift truck
Identify LOLER and PUWER regulations
List some employer’s responsibilities
Name some responsibilities that employee’s hold

List some accidents that can occur caused by lift trucks
Identify the 5 steps to a risk assessment
List some safety measures that can be implemented for lift trucks
Identify why lift truck training is important
Identify why speed limits are important and how they can be used
Identify the purpose of site markings and signage
List some important elements that a loading bay area should have
Name some reversing and signalling safety measures
Identify the meaning of the Safe Stop Procedure
Identify why lift truck maintenance is important for safety
List some lift truck safety ‘do’s and don’ts’

Course Content

This course is made up of the following modules:

Introduction to Forklift and Lift Truck Safety

This section introduces the learner to the course. It looks at some specific features that can be found on a lift truck and where to find them, such as, load capacity signage, level controls, etc
Module 1 - Hazards and Risks

This section of the course concentrates the definitions of hazard and risk. It looks at the relevant regulations that are put in place to help prevent workers from coming into harm with lifting equipment. It also looks at how thorough planning before operations is beneficial in protecting the health of workers and others within the vicinity.
Module 2 - Competent and Safe Operators

This section of the course covers the different responsibilities that both the employee and employer have when it comes to the operation of lift trucks and forklifts. It also looks at what a safe and competent operator should do, and how training is essential for all workers who will operate a forklift or lift truck vehicle.
Module 3 - Implementation of Safety Measures

In this final section, you will cover some safety measures that can be implemented to help prevent any risks or hazards surrounding lift trucks within the workplace. For example, you will look at speed limits, safe site design and loading bays. This section also looks at some lift truck and forklift do’s and don’ts, to demonstrate how all workers can avoid unnecessary accidents or injuries by following basic procedures.

Download Course Overview (PDF)

Assessment

On completion of the course lessons and training material an online assessment will automatically unlock. The assessment will contain 15 multiple-choice questions and a mark of 75% or above will be required to pass.

The assessment will be marked instantly and so you will know straight away if you have passed or not. If you don't pass first time there's no need to worry. Unlimited resits at absolutely no additional charge are available so you can retake the assessment again as many times as you need to.

Online Forklift Truck Safety Training Certification

Our entire library of training courses is accredited by the CPD Certification Service as adhering to the universally recognised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) guidelines.

This training course and its content has also been assured by RoSPA, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.

Forklift and Lift Truck Safety Training - Certificate Example

Upon passing the online assessment you will have the options to both print and download your Forklift and Lift Safety Training Certificate in PDF format. In addition to this an automated email will also be sent to your chosen email address containing a link to your certificate ensuring you always have access to a copy.

Furthermore, a QR code is displayed on each certificate which when scanned by a smartphone links to our certification database. This allows employers, auditors and local authority inspectors, for example, to establish a certificates validity instantly and at any time.

Common Forklift and Lift Truck Training Questions

Most forklift accidents don't happen because of a single mistake. They usually result from a combination of unsafe behaviours, poor workplace practices or inadequate training. The good news is that most of these risks can be significantly reduced with the right knowledge and safe operating procedures.

The most common causes of forklift accidents

Poor Operator Awareness: Failing to notice pedestrians, blind spots or moving vehicles can quickly lead to collisions.
Limited Visibility: Large loads, blind corners and reversing all reduce visibility and require extra care.
Unstable Loads: Overloading or poorly balanced loads can shift unexpectedly and affect the truck's stability.
Travelling Too Fast: Speed reduces control, increases stopping distances and makes overturns more likely.
Poor Maintenance: Daily inspections help identify worn tyres, brake defects and hydraulic leaks before they become serious hazards.
Lack of Training: Without proper training, operators may not understand safe lifting techniques, workplace hazards or emergency procedures.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), vehicles at work continue to be one of the leading causes of fatal and major workplace injuries.

These figures highlight why forklift safety training is more than a legal requirement. It's an essential part of protecting operators, pedestrians and everyone working around lift trucks.

While there is no law that specifically requires operators to hold a forklift licence, employers have a legal duty to ensure that anyone operating a forklift or lift truck is properly trained, competent and able to use the equipment safely.

Several pieces of UK health and safety legislation work together to create these responsibilities.

Legislation / Guidance	What it means for forklift and lift truck safety
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974	Employers must protect the health, safety and welfare of employees and anyone affected by their work activities.
PUWER 1998	Forklifts must be suitable for the task, properly maintained and only operated by trained, competent people.
LOLER 1998	Forklifts used for lifting loads must be thoroughly examined, maintained and used safely.
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999	Employers must assess workplace risks and put suitable control measures in place, including training where required.
HSE Approved Code of Practice L117	Provides recognised guidance on operator training, refresher training and maintaining competence. Following L117 helps demonstrate compliance with legal duties.

There is no legal requirement to renew forklift training after a fixed number of years. However, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that employers regularly review operator competence and provide refresher training whenever it is needed to ensure operators continue to work safely.

Forklift safety training should not be viewed as a one-off event. As workplaces, equipment and working practices change, regular refresher training helps reinforce safe operating techniques, correct unsafe habits and keep operators up to date with current best practice.

Refresher training is recommended when:

An operator has been involved in an accident or near miss.
Unsafe operating practices have been observed.
A different type of forklift or lift truck is introduced.
Workplace layouts or operating conditions change.
An operator returns to work after a long absence.
Employers believe additional training would improve safety or competence.

Employee refresher training helps operators:

Improve hazard awareness.
Reinforce safe lifting and load handling techniques.
Stay familiar with workplace traffic management procedures.
Maintain confidence and competence.
Reduce the risk of accidents, injuries and equipment damage.

Workplace Scenario

1 / 4

Unsafe Reversing

Situation

A forklift operator is reversing down a busy warehouse aisle after collecting an empty pallet. Assuming the route behind is clear, they reverse without stopping to check their surroundings. At the same time, a warehouse employee walks across the aisle to collect stock and is struck by the rear of the forklift, resulting in serious injuries.

What went wrong?

The operator failed to check behind the truck before reversing and relied solely on mirrors. The warehouse also lacked clear pedestrian walkways and there was no banksman to assist where visibility was limited. Reversing incidents are among the most common causes of workplace transport accidents.

Key takeaway

Always check that loads are stable, secure and within the forklift's rated capacity before moving them. Travel slowly, keep the load low to the ground and avoid sudden turns.

Workplace Scenario

Daily Safety Checks Not Completed

Situation

An operator begins their shift without carrying out the daily pre-use inspection. During the morning, they discover the brakes are slow to respond while approaching a loading bay. The forklift collides with a pallet, causing damage to stock and warehouse racking.

What went wrong?

Routine safety checks were skipped, meaning a mechanical fault wasn't identified before the truck was used. Daily inspections are designed to detect issues before they become safety risks.

Key takeaway

Carry out a pre-use inspection before every shift. If faults are identified, report them immediately and do not operate the forklift until it has been repaired or declared safe.

Workplace Scenario

Travelling Too Fast

Situation

While working to meet a delivery deadline, a forklift operator travels through the warehouse at excessive speed. As they approach a blind corner, another forklift emerges from the opposite direction. Both operators brake sharply, but the trucks collide, damaging equipment and blocking the warehouse.

What went wrong?

The operator failed to reduce speed when approaching a blind corner and did not allow sufficient stopping distance. Speed significantly reduces reaction time and increases the severity of workplace collisions.

Key takeaway

Always drive at a safe speed and slow down when approaching junctions, blind corners or pedestrian areas. Safe driving protects both people and equipment.

Workplace Scenario

Unstable Load

Situation

An operator attempts to move a pallet containing unevenly stacked boxes. Although the load appears secure, it has not been positioned evenly across the forks. While turning into another aisle, the load shifts unexpectedly and falls from the forklift, narrowly missing another employee working nearby.

What went wrong?

The load was unstable and not correctly positioned before being lifted. Turning too quickly while carrying an uneven load increased the shift in the centre of gravity, making the load unstable.

Key takeaway

Always check that loads are stable, secure and within the forklift's rated capacity before moving them. Travel slowly, keep the load low to the ground and avoid sudden turns.

The Importance of Forklift and Lift Truck Training

Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe working environment for anyone who may be affected by forklift operations. This extends beyond simply supplying equipment and includes ensuring operators are trained, supervised and working within safe systems of work.

A proactive approach to forklift safety not only helps organisations comply with legislation but also reduces accidents, protects employees and improves operational efficiency.

Employers should ensure:

Operators receive suitable forklift safety training.
Only competent and authorised employees operate forklifts.
Forklifts are regularly inspected and properly maintained.
Daily pre-use checks are completed and recorded.
Risk assessments are carried out and reviewed.
Traffic routes and pedestrian walkways are clearly identified.
Operators receive refresher training when required.
Defects and near misses are reported promptly.

Forklifts and lift trucks are essential for moving heavy loads efficiently, but they are also among the most hazardous vehicles used in the workplace. Without proper training and safe working practices, even routine tasks can quickly lead to serious injuries, damaged equipment and costly business disruption.

Creating a safe working environment protects not only forklift operators, but also pedestrians, contractors and visitors who may be working nearby. Good forklift safety reduces accidents, improves confidence and helps businesses meet their legal responsibilities under UK health and safety legislation.

A strong forklift safety culture helps to.

Benefit	Why it Matters
Protect Employees	Reduces the risk of injuries, workplace accidents and serious incidents involving forklifts and lift trucks.
Improve Pedestrian Safety	Helps keep pedestrians safely separated from moving vehicles, reducing the likelihood of collisions.
Protect Loads and Equipment	Minimises damage to stock, warehouse racking, pallets and forklift trucks, reducing repair and replacement costs.
Support Legal Compliance	Helps employers meet their responsibilities under UK health and safety legislation and HSE guidance.
Improve Productivity	Fewer accidents and equipment failures result in less downtime, fewer delays and more efficient operations.
Build Operator Confidence	Well-trained operators feel more competent, make better decisions and work more safely every day.

A safer workplace isn't created by training alone. It relies on good planning, clear procedures and a working environment that supports safe behaviour every day.

Small improvements to workplace layout and traffic management can make a significant difference in reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Ways to improve forklift safety

Safety Measure	How it improves forklift safety
Clearly marked pedestrian walkways	Helps keep employees, visitors and contractors safely separated from moving forklifts and lift trucks.
Physical barriers	Reduces the risk of pedestrians accidentally entering forklift operating areas.
Clear safety signage	Reminds operators and pedestrians of site rules, traffic routes, speed limits and known hazards.
One-way traffic systems	Reduces vehicle conflict in busy areas and helps operators follow predictable routes.
Good lighting	Improves visibility in warehouses, yards, loading bays and areas where forklifts reverse or turn.
Speed limits	Gives operators more time to react and reduces the risk and severity of collisions.
High-visibility PPE	Makes pedestrians easier for forklift operators to see, especially in busy or low-light areas.
Regular inspections	Helps identify equipment defects, damaged surfaces and workplace hazards before they lead to accidents.

Forklift safety training provides benefits that extend far beyond initial certification. As operators gain experience, regular training and refresher courses help maintain competence, reinforce safe habits and support continuous improvement across the workplace.

For employers, investing in safety training demonstrates a commitment to employee wellbeing while helping reduce operational risks and associated costs.

Long-term benefits for operators

Increased confidence.
Better hazard awareness.
Safer operating techniques.
Greater understanding of workplace responsibilities.
Improved career development opportunities.

Long-term benefits for employers

Fewer workplace accidents.
Reduced equipment damage.
Lower maintenance and repair costs.
Improved legal compliance.
Increased productivity.
Stronger safety culture.
Greater employee confidence and morale.

Course Reviews

4.6.

(110 reviews)

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