Product Overview

This Forklift (Electric) Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is developed to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement controls for the safe use of electric forklifts in Australian workplaces. It is a comprehensive, task-specific document covering multiple aspects of electric forklift operations and pedestrian-operated forklift activities to support WHS compliance and effective risk management.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Safe operation of electric forklifts in warehouses, workshops, loading docks, and yard environments
• Pre-start inspection of electric forklifts, including brakes, steering, mast, forks, hydraulics, and warning devices
• Battery charging, battery change-out, and safe handling of electric forklift batteries and charging equipment
• Pedestrian-operated forklift use, including walk-behind and stand-on models in shared work areas
• Segregation of forklifts and pedestrians, including traffic management plans, walkways, and exclusion zones
• Loading, lifting, carrying, stacking, and unstacking pallets, stillages, and materials within rated capacities
• Operating forklifts on inclines, ramps, and uneven surfaces while maintaining load stability and control
• Working in confined spaces, aisles, and tight areas with limited visibility and turning space
• Use of seatbelts, operator restraints, guards, and other safety features on electric forklifts
• Managing environmental hazards including poor lighting, noise, ventilation, and interaction with other plant
• Emergency procedures for collisions, tip-overs, near misses, and battery or electrical incidents
• Operator competency, licensing, and supervision requirements for high risk work involving forklifts
• Housekeeping and maintaining clear accessways, loading zones, and storage areas for safe forklift movement

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for warehousing and logistics operators, manufacturers, retail distribution centres, construction sites, and any PCBU or site supervisor responsible for the safe use of electric and pedestrian-operated forklifts.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Model Code of Practice: Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace – Guidance on controlling risks associated with forklifts and other plant
• Model Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – Framework for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities – Requirements for safe traffic routes, lighting, and workplace layout
• AS 2359 Powered Industrial Trucks – Requirements for the safe use and maintenance of forklifts and similar industrial trucks
• AS/NZS 4024 Safety of Machinery (relevant parts) – Principles for machinery guarding and operator protection for plant
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017