Stay Safe. Stay Certified
Stay compliant, reduce risks, and protect your team with proven forklift safety practices
Your Legal Responsibilities
Under UK law, forklift operation is not just about skill – it’s a legal responsibility. Employers and operators must comply with regulations designed to keep workplaces safe.
The main laws covering forklift operations include:
Approved Code of Practice for Forklift Trucks
The HSE’s Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for Rider‑Operated Lift Trucks (L117) was updated in 2013 and is now the key standard for forklift training in the UK. It sets out the three stages of operator training – basic, job‑specific, and on‑site familiarisation – and makes clear that managers and supervisors must also be trained to spot unsafe practices and maintain safe operations.
Following the ACOP isn’t optional – it has legal weight under UK health and safety law. FT4U’s courses are fully aligned with the latest ACOP, giving operators and employers the knowledge, skills, and compliance they need to keep every shift safe.
NORS – National Operator Registration Scheme
The National Operator Registration Scheme (NORS) is a centralised UK system maintained by RTITB that records certified forklift operators and their training detail
- Valid for three years: Once your training is completed, NORS registration remains active for three years. RTITB will automatically send a reminder when it’s time for renewed training
- Operator Benefits: It enables quick access to duplicate certificates, easy verification of your credentials, and may improve eligibility for funding assistance
- Employer Benefits: Employers can confidently verify operator records, identify accredited operators via their NORS number, and ensure timely refresher training to maintain safe, compliant operations
FT4U registers all candidates on the NORS database and ensures operators receive RTITB-issued certification, helping validate training and support compliance with best‑practice requirements.
Training & Competency
- Forklift operators must receive proper training before using any truck.
- Training should cover theory, practical skills, and site-specific instruction.
- Only certified instructors can deliver this training (FT4U uses RTITB-accredited trainers).
HSE states that refresher training is strongly recommended every three years, or sooner if there’s been:
-
An accident or near miss
-
Evidence of unsafe practice
-
A change in the type of truck or working environment
⚠️ Common Hazards
Forklifts are powerful, essential tools, but when used incorrectly, they can become one of the biggest risks in the workplace. Understanding the most common hazards helps operators and employers prevent accidents before they happen.
The most frequent forklift hazards include:
- Overturning – Often caused by sharp turns, speeding, or uneven ground.
- Collisions with pedestrians – A leading cause of workplace injuries when walkways aren’t clearly marked or drivers aren’t alert.
- Overloading or unstable loads – Loads that are too heavy or poorly stacked can tip, fall, or destabilise the truck.
- Poor visibility – Carrying loads that block the view or working in low‑lit areas can lead to accidents.
- Lack of maintenance – Worn brakes, tyres, or hydraulics increase the risk of failure and unsafe operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a licence to drive a forklift?
There isn’t a government‑issued “forklift licence” in the UK, but you must have formal training from an accredited provider before operating a truck. Employers are legally responsible for ensuring only properly trained operators use forklifts.
How often should refresher training be done?
The HSE recommends refresher training every three years – or sooner if there’s been an accident, unsafe practices spotted, or if you’re changing trucks or environments. This keeps skills sharp and prevents bad habits.
Is there a minimum age for forklift training?
Yes. Operators must be at least 16 years old (or 18 in certain high‑risk workplaces). This ensures they have the maturity and awareness needed for safe operation.
Can I operate a forklift without supervision once trained?
After completing accredited training, you can operate a forklift – but supervisors are still required to oversee safe practices and step in if unsafe behaviour is seen.
What happens if I have an accident while driving a forklift?
Investigators will ask when your last training took place and whether the correct procedures were followed. Keeping up‑to‑date training and records helps protect both the operator and the employer.
Get In Touch
Shift Your Career Into Gear Today
Learn with industry experts and start your driving career with confidence.
