Course Title:
Forklift Operation and Safety Training
Unit of Competency: RIIHAN201E – Operate a Forklift
Target Audience:
This course is intended for individuals working or seeking employment in industries where forklift use is required. It is suitable for:
- New forklift operators requiring foundational skills
- Existing workers seeking formal certification or refresher training
- Employees in sectors such as:
- Warehousing and logistics
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Transport and freight handling
- Mining and resource operations
- Retail distribution centres
Course Overview:
RIIHAN201E – Operate a Forklift is a nationally recognised unit of competency that provides participants with the essential skills and knowledge to safely operate a forklift truck in accordance with workplace procedures and legislative requirements. This training covers both theoretical knowledge and practical applications to ensure participants can operate forklifts efficiently and safely in varied workplace environments.
While the unit is commonly associated with mining and resource sectors due to the RII Training Package, it is also widely applicable across industries requiring materials handling.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
✅ Identify different types of forklift trucks and their applications
✅ Conduct pre-start, operational, and shutdown inspections
✅ Understand load data plates, weight distribution, and stability triangles
✅ Operate forklifts in indoor and outdoor settings with variable conditions
✅ Lift, transport, and place loads using correct forklift techniques
✅ Stack and unstack loads at different heights with precision
✅ Apply safe operating procedures including load securing and maneuvering
✅ Identify hazards and implement control measures
✅ Comply with workplace safety protocols, including personal protective equipment (PPE), traffic management, and site-specific guidelines
✅ Respond appropriately in emergency or fault situations
Key Topics Covered:
Introduction to Forklift Operation:
- Types and features of forklifts (counterbalance, reach trucks, rough terrain, etc.)
- Key terminology and mechanical principles
Work Health and Safety (WHS) Requirements:
- Legal responsibilities and operator duties under WHS laws
- Site-specific safety procedures and company policies
- Hazard identification and risk management
Pre-Operational Inspections:
- Daily safety checks: fluid levels, brakes, tyres, forks, hydraulics
- Identifying and reporting mechanical faults
- Documentation and inspection logs
Forklift Controls and Operation:
- Understanding control levers, tilt, lift, and side shift functions
- Operating in confined spaces, on inclines, and around pedestrians
- Parking and shutdown procedures
Load Handling and Stability:
- Load weight estimation and load centre considerations
- Stacking, unstacking, and racking techniques
- Forklift stability triangle and tipping hazards
Workplace Procedures:
- Navigating different terrain conditions
- Traffic management systems in shared workspaces
- Communication with other workers (hand signals, radios, etc.)
Emergency Procedures and Fault Response:
- Responding to mechanical failure, load slippage, or obstructions
- Emergency stop and evacuation processes
- Incident reporting and near-miss protocols
Course Format:
Theory Component:
- WHS legislation
- Risk controls
- Load management principles
- Forklift operating procedures
Practical Component:
- Hands-on operation of a forklift truck
- Navigating obstacles and confined spaces
- Loading/unloading tasks
- Application of pre-start safety checks and shutdown procedures
Assessment:
- Written or oral theory test
- Practical competency assessment under simulated or live worksite conditions
- Observation of safe operational techniques and hazard responses
Duration:
1 to 2 days, depending on:
- Participant experience
- Group size
- Training provider’s delivery model
- Site-specific induction requirements
Prerequisites:
- No formal educational prerequisites
- Participants must be physically capable of performing manual tasks and operating equipment
- Basic English literacy and numeracy skills recommended to understand manuals, complete paperwork, and follow verbal instructions
- Closed-toe safety footwear and appropriate PPE required during training
Certification:
Upon successful completion of theory and practical assessments, participants will receive a:
Statement of Attainment for:
RIIHAN201E – Operate a Forklift
This certification is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and confirms the participant’s competency to operate a forklift in line with workplace safety standards.
Note: If operating a forklift truck with a mast (e.g., counterbalance forklift) over 900mm fork height, participants may also be required to obtain a High-Risk Work License (LF Class) issued by a relevant state or territory Work Health and Safety Regulator. Check with your jurisdiction for compliance requirements.
Refresher and Ongoing Competency:
While there is no legislated expiry for this unit, refresher training every 3–5 years is strongly recommended by industry best practices and some employer WHS policies. Refresher options are available—contact us for details.
Why This Course Is Essential:
Forklift-related incidents are a leading cause of injury in high-traffic workplaces. This course ensures not only compliance with safety regulations but also significantly reduces the risk of accidents, equipment damage, and costly downtime. Graduates of this program are workplace-ready and contribute to a culture of safety and efficiency.
