WHAT ARE THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR HIRING A FORKLIFT IN THE UK?
Hiring a forklift offers scalability during increased seasonal demands or short-term projects, whilst also helping businesses avoid large upfront costs and move towards more financial flexibility.
Before hiring a forklift, it is vital to understand the UK’s legal requirements for operating one. We have compiled information on a list of factors to consider, including licensing laws, insurance requirements, and health and safety standards. We aim to help you fully prepare for what is required for your forklift hire.
Forklift Licensing and Certification
Surprisingly, there is no such thing as a “forklift license”; the term typically refers to the relevant certification you are required to obtain to operate a forklift.
Any forklift operator is obligated to complete proper, accredited training, which grants them certification. Employers should maintain a record of these certifications for all employees operating the forklift for any necessary compliance checks.
Not having a certification can result in fines and legal consequences for both the employer and the operator.
Do Forklift Operators Need a Driving License?
Forklift operators don’t need a driving license to operate a forklift as long as it’s not being used on the road. That being said, if the forklift is used on roads, a license is required. It is also important that you check the forklift to ensure it complies with Road Vehicle Regulations. This includes being:
- Registered with the DVLA.
- Taxed and insured for road use.
- Fit with the appropriate features - lighting, reflectors, registration plates, etc.
- Flashing amber beacons if travelling 25mph or less.
What are the Insurance Requirements?
There are two main types of insurance to consider before any other insurance policies:
- Employers’ Liability Insurance - for coverage if you have employees operating a forklift.
- Hired-in-Plant Insurance - covering repair costs, replacement, and ongoing hire charges while the forklift is out of commission.
However, other insurance policies may be required. It is important to note that different insurance requirements are allocated to different working environments, e.g. whether the work is conducted on private land or in a public space, as the risks in these areas differ.
If you’re unsure about what types of insurance you should have, speak to your insurance provider so that they can recommend relevant policies for your business operations.
Who is Liable?
Employers are legally responsible for providing the appropriate forklift training and safety guidance for their employees. The Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) was updated in 2013 to include specifications surrounding forklift operator training, breaking down three distinct phases of training:
- Basic Training: a course followed by a test.
- Specific Job Training: a recognised understanding of the workplace and the handling of machinery.
- Familiarisation Training: working under close supervision.
Rushlift can provide the appropriate training on the proper usage of your chosen forklift should you choose to work with us; just get in touch!
Health and Safety Standards
To operate a forklift, you must be a minimum of 16 and generally meet the health and fitness standards for a Group 1 driving license. However, many employers require you to be over 18 due to health and safety considerations for young people.
It is also vital that employees wear appropriate, high-visibility clothing and PPE, conduct pre-use inspections, maintain safe distances from other people and vehicles (if applicable), and only operate well-maintained equipment.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment 1998 requires forklifts and other equipment to be suitable for their intended use, regularly inspected, and well-maintained.
How Can Rushlift Help?
Here at Rushlift, we provide contractual forklift hire to help your business maximise efficiency and productivity, including electric forklifts, diesel forklifts, and LPG forklifts to suit your industry needs.
Interested in our services or want more information?
Get in touch today on 0800 731 5035 or via email at [email protected] to get started with your forklift hire.