Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:50 AM AWST
22/07/2026 10:50 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Licence to operate a forklift truck
Licence to operate a forklift truck
Unit of competency
National Code
TLILIC108A
TLILIC108A
State Code
S7161
S7161
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
10/10/2011
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
10/10/2011
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit specifies the outcomes required for the operation of a powered industrial truck equipped with a mast and an elevating load carriage to which is attached a pair of fork arms or other attachment, for licensing purposes. This definition also includes a truck on which the operator is raised with the attachment for order-picking.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Plan work
- 1.1 Potential workplace hazards are identified
- 1.2 Hazard control measures are identified consistent with appropriate standards to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment
- 1.3 Appropriate forklift truck is selected according to the load and workplace conditions
- 1.4 Working area is inspected to determine appropriate path of movement for loads and forklift truck
- 1.5 Communication methods are identified according to procedures
2 Conduct routine checks
- 2.1 Forklift is visually checked for any damage or defects
- 2.2 All signage and labels are visible and legible according to the appropriate standard
- 2.3 All controls are located and identified
- 2.4 Pre-start operational checks are carried out according to procedures
- 2.5 Forklift is started according to procedures and checked for any abnormal noise
- 2.6 Post-start operational checks are carried out according to procedures
- 2.7 All forklift functions and safety devices are tested to their maximum according to procedures
- 2.8 Defects and damage are reported and recorded according to procedures, and appropriate action is taken
3 Shift load
- 3.1 The weight of load is assessed to ensure compliance with forklift truck data plate specifications
- 3.2 Appropriate hazard prevention/control measures are implemented and communicated with personnel in the work area
- 3.3 Forklift is operated at a safe speed and according to procedures
- 3.4 Loads are moved and placed to ensure stability of material and avoidance of hazards
- 3.5 Load movement is monitored constantly ensuring safety to personnel and load, and structural stability
- 3.6 Unplanned and/or unsafe situations are responded to in line with procedures
4 Shut down and secure forklift truck
- 4.1 Forklift truck is parked to avoid hazards
- 4.2 Forklift is shut down according to procedures
- 4.3 Routine post-operational forklift checks are carried out according to procedures
- 4.4 Forklift is secured to prevent unauthorised access/use
- 4.5 All defects and damage are reported and recorded according to procedures, and appropriate action is taken
RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below.
Hazards
May include but not limited to:
ground conditions (e.g. condition of pavement, slopes)
overhead hazards (e.g. powerlines, service pipes)
insufficient lighting
traffic (e.g. pedestrians, vehicles, other plant)
weather (e.g. wind, lightning, rain)
forklift instability (e.g. overloading, poor load placement, irregular loads)
other hazards (e.g. dangerous materials)
Hazard control measures
Refers to the systematic process of eliminating or reducing the risk to personnel and property through the application of controls
It includes the application of the hierarchy of control, the six-step preference of control measures to manage and control risk:
1 elimination2 substitution3 isolation4 engineering control measures5 using safe work practices6 personal protective equipment
Appropriate standards
May include but not limited to:
legislation
Australian standards
manufacturer's specifications
industry standards (where applicable)
Forklift truck
May include but not be limited to:
counterbalanced
reach trucks
rough terrain
internal combustion petrol, diesel, gas
electric
Communications methods
May include but not limited to:
verbal and non-verbal language
written instructions
signage
hand signals
listening
questioning to confirm understanding
appropriate worksite protocol
Procedures
May include but not limited to:
manufacturer's guidelines (instructions, specifications or checklists)
industry operating procedures
workplace procedures (work instructions, operating procedures, checklists)
Pre-start operational checks
May include but not limited to:
safety devices fitted where appropriate
forklift data plate fitted and interpreted
logbook, handbook or operating manuals available
external visual check including, evidence of damage, leaks, visual evidence of structural weaknesses (including paint separation or stressed welds) is carried out
forklift attachment is checked for security
approved modifications and/or attachments fitted to manufacturer's specifications (e.g. as per forklift or attachment data plate) are identified
checks for adaptations or modifications outside manufacturer's specifications (e.g. not listed on the forklift or attachment data plate) are carried out
maintenance logbook/records checked
Post-start operational checks
May include checks of the forklift truck and equipment after start-up to ensure:
hazard warning systems (for example lights and horns), are functional
attachment movements and control functions are smooth and comply with operating requirements
steering, transmission and brake functions comply with operating requirements
Hazard prevention/control measures
May include but not limited to:
barricades and traffic control
safety tags on electrical switches/isolators
insulated powerlines
safety observer used inside exclusion zone
disconnected power
pedestrian control (barricades, signs, etc.)
excavation safeguards
movement of obstructions
personal protective equipment
adequate illumination
Unplanned and/or unsafe situations
May include but not limited:
failure/loss of control (e.g. brakes and steering)
failure of equipment (e.g. hydraulic system)
environmental condition
Shut down
May include, but is not limited to:
parking in a suitable location away from dangerous areas
fork arms are correctly positioned (tips down, tilted forward, lowered to ground)
appropriate transmission/gear is selected for parking (relevant to transmission type)
hand/parking brake is applied
engine power is turned off
ignition key is removed (if applicable)
LPG gas cylinder valve is shut off (where fitted)
securing equipment against unauthorised operation
securing the site
ensuring access ways are clear
identifying and segregating defective equipment and reporting to authorised personnel
batteries are connected to the charger (if applicable)
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below.
Hazards
May include but not limited to:
ground conditions (e.g. condition of pavement, slopes)
overhead hazards (e.g. powerlines, service pipes)
insufficient lighting
traffic (e.g. pedestrians, vehicles, other plant)
weather (e.g. wind, lightning, rain)
forklift instability (e.g. overloading, poor load placement, irregular loads)
other hazards (e.g. dangerous materials)
Hazard control measures
Refers to the systematic process of eliminating or reducing the risk to personnel and property through the application of controls
It includes the application of the hierarchy of control, the six-step preference of control measures to manage and control risk:
1 elimination2 substitution3 isolation4 engineering control measures5 using safe work practices6 personal protective equipment
Appropriate standards
May include but not limited to:
legislation
Australian standards
manufacturer's specifications
industry standards (where applicable)
Forklift truck
May include but not be limited to:
counterbalanced
reach trucks
rough terrain
internal combustion petrol, diesel, gas
electric
Communications methods
May include but not limited to:
verbal and non-verbal language
written instructions
signage
hand signals
listening
questioning to confirm understanding
appropriate worksite protocol
Procedures
May include but not limited to:
manufacturer's guidelines (instructions, specifications or checklists)
industry operating procedures
workplace procedures (work instructions, operating procedures, checklists)
Pre-start operational checks
May include but not limited to:
safety devices fitted where appropriate
forklift data plate fitted and interpreted
logbook, handbook or operating manuals available
external visual check including, evidence of damage, leaks, visual evidence of structural weaknesses (including paint separation or stressed welds) is carried out
forklift attachment is checked for security
approved modifications and/or attachments fitted to manufacturer's specifications (e.g. as per forklift or attachment data plate) are identified
checks for adaptations or modifications outside manufacturer's specifications (e.g. not listed on the forklift or attachment data plate) are carried out
maintenance logbook/records checked
Post-start operational checks
May include checks of the forklift truck and equipment after start-up to ensure:
hazard warning systems (for example lights and horns), are functional
attachment movements and control functions are smooth and comply with operating requirements
steering, transmission and brake functions comply with operating requirements
Hazard prevention/control measures
May include but not limited to:
barricades and traffic control
safety tags on electrical switches/isolators
insulated powerlines
safety observer used inside exclusion zone
disconnected power
pedestrian control (barricades, signs, etc.)
excavation safeguards
movement of obstructions
personal protective equipment
adequate illumination
Unplanned and/or unsafe situations
May include but not limited:
failure/loss of control (e.g. brakes and steering)
failure of equipment (e.g. hydraulic system)
environmental condition
Shut down
May include, but is not limited to:
parking in a suitable location away from dangerous areas
fork arms are correctly positioned (tips down, tilted forward, lowered to ground)
appropriate transmission/gear is selected for parking (relevant to transmission type)
hand/parking brake is applied
engine power is turned off
ignition key is removed (if applicable)
LPG gas cylinder valve is shut off (where fitted)
securing equipment against unauthorised operation
securing the site
ensuring access ways are clear
identifying and segregating defective equipment and reporting to authorised personnel
batteries are connected to the charger (if applicable)
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, the range statement and the assessment guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment
Successful assessment of this unit meets the competency requirement of the National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work.
State/territory OH&S regulators have mandated the use of Assessment Instruments and Instructions for Assessment for this unit which have been endorsed by the national body responsible for OH&S matters.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Compliance with OH&S licensing legislation.
Communicate and work safely with others in the work area.
Identify hazards associated with the operation of the forklift truck and put in place effective hazard controls for those hazards identified.
Conduct pre-start-up, operational, moving loads and shut down and secure checks of the forklift truck according to procedures.
Operate the forklift truck and move loads safely, including driving and manoeuvring, picking up and placing of loads at various stack heights.
Drive forklift truck with load in forward and reverse, maintaining visibility.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment of the safe application of knowledge and skills to workplace tasks (performance) must be undertaken using the endorsed Assessment Instrument.
Assessment of performance must be undertaken either in the workplace or in a realistically simulated workplace setting.
Assessment must occur under standard and authorised work practices, safety requirements and environmental constraints.
Applicants must have access to:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the purpose of the Performance Assessment
associated equipment appropriate to forklift truck operations
suitable loads as described by the endorsed Assessment Instrument
manufacturers specifications
appropriate forklift truck in a safe condition.
Method of assessment
Assessment must be conducted using the endorsed Assessment Instrument. These Instruments provide instruction on their application.
The use of 'simulators' in the assessment of this unit of competency is not acceptable.
Assessment may be in conjunction with the assessment of other units of competency.
Assessment methods must confirm consistency and accuracy of performance together with application of underpinning knowledge.
Assessment must confirm a reasonable inference that competency is not only able to be satisfied under the particular circumstance, but is able to be transferred to other circumstances.
Guidance information for assessment
Further information about endorsed Assessment Instruments may be obtained from state/territory OH&S regulators.
Overview of assessment
Successful assessment of this unit meets the competency requirement of the National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work.
State/territory OH&S regulators have mandated the use of Assessment Instruments and Instructions for Assessment for this unit which have been endorsed by the national body responsible for OH&S matters.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Compliance with OH&S licensing legislation.
Communicate and work safely with others in the work area.
Identify hazards associated with the operation of the forklift truck and put in place effective hazard controls for those hazards identified.
Conduct pre-start-up, operational, moving loads and shut down and secure checks of the forklift truck according to procedures.
Operate the forklift truck and move loads safely, including driving and manoeuvring, picking up and placing of loads at various stack heights.
Drive forklift truck with load in forward and reverse, maintaining visibility.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment of the safe application of knowledge and skills to workplace tasks (performance) must be undertaken using the endorsed Assessment Instrument.
Assessment of performance must be undertaken either in the workplace or in a realistically simulated workplace setting.
Assessment must occur under standard and authorised work practices, safety requirements and environmental constraints.
Applicants must have access to:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the purpose of the Performance Assessment
associated equipment appropriate to forklift truck operations
suitable loads as described by the endorsed Assessment Instrument
manufacturers specifications
appropriate forklift truck in a safe condition.
Method of assessment
Assessment must be conducted using the endorsed Assessment Instrument. These Instruments provide instruction on their application.
The use of 'simulators' in the assessment of this unit of competency is not acceptable.
Assessment may be in conjunction with the assessment of other units of competency.
Assessment methods must confirm consistency and accuracy of performance together with application of underpinning knowledge.
Assessment must confirm a reasonable inference that competency is not only able to be satisfied under the particular circumstance, but is able to be transferred to other circumstances.
Guidance information for assessment
Further information about endorsed Assessment Instruments may be obtained from state/territory OH&S regulators.
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| D5241 | TLILIC2001A | Licence to operate a forklift truck | Unit of competency |