The simple answer – yes.
Forklifts (or forklift trucks) are used across a wide range of industries including warehousing, construction, and manufacturing. These industrial trucks are designed to lift and move heavy loads over short distances. Forklift operation in Australia requires all forklift drivers to be licensed operators, so forklift training is vital for an employer who wishes to hire you as a forklift driver.
In order to operate forklifts, you will need to be trained in the use of forklift trucks. Then pass an assessment and apply for a license. In Australia, this license is commonly known as the LF Forklift License. It allows license holders to legally operate any forklift with a mast, regardless of weight capacity. There is also an LO Forklift License which only allows the operator to drive an order picker/stock picker forklift.
The course will involve both theory and practical assessments and will generally run over 3 days. Workplace health and safety authorities Australia-wide have ensured the training and assessment model is thorough to ensure all participants are up-to-date with the latest workplace practices.
Before obtaining your forklift license, you will need to do some research to find out which forklift license you need and which course provider will benefit you the most.
Choosing the right forklift license provider
A forklift license is one of the most versatile qualifications obtainable for those seeking employment. It’s no secret that those with a forklift license are more valuable to an employer and in just three days, this qualification can be easily achieved. Before applying for your forklift license, there a few questions that you should consider asking the course provider. Make sure your course provider is certified, ensure they offer the relevant course to the work you want to do, find out how long they have been in business, ask what machinery are you able to be trained on, and look up the cost and duration.
What to expect during the course
The process of training consists of three parts:
- Theory training – this is where you will learn the workplace safety essentials for operating plant and machinery, as well as identifying and managing hazards in the workplace
- Practical training – this is where you will learn the to operate and drive the forklift, as well as vehicle stability and control
- Assessment – this is where what you have learned in theory and practice is combined. This is a formal closed book assessment, where correct answers must be provided. Assessors have some flexibility in marking to allow verbal clarification where required, depending on how critical the section is.
Requirements:
Licensed operators of forklift trucks in Australia need to be 18 years of age or over, have a basic understanding of the English language and be able to provide 100 points of ID (including something with a photo). Once you have completed the final assessment successfully, you are required to lodge and register your license online within 10 days with Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.
