This Forklift Operation & Pre-Start SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives your operators a clear, step-by-step method for checking and driving a forklift safely. It covers the pre-start inspection, carrying loads, travelling on ramps and around pedestrians, LPG cylinder changes, battery charging, shutdown and what to do if something goes wrong. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Warehouses and distribution centres
Manufacturers and factories
Transport and logistics businesses
Hardware, timber and building supply yards
Builders and trades moving materials on site
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Tip-over and rollover from overloading, raised loads, speed or sharp turns
Falling loads from exceeding the rated capacity or carrying off-centre loads
Collisions with pedestrians, vehicles and structures at doorways and blind corners
Crush injuries from an overturning forklift or a falling load
Ramps, slopes and uneven, wet or unstable surfaces
Being thrown from the seat when the seatbelt isn't worn
Fire, explosion or gas leaks during LPG cylinder changes
Electric shock, acid burns and hydrogen gas during battery charging
Exhaust fumes and carbon monoxide in enclosed areas
What's included
12 pre-operational checks, from the licence and capacity plate to brakes, steering and warning devices
A 14-step operating procedure covering loads, travel, ramps, pedestrians and what to do in a tip-over
Isolation and energy control for parking, LPG cylinder changes and battery charging
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for rollovers, falling loads, fires and LPG or electrolyte spills
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Bricklaying & Masonry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Building & Construction SOP Bundle, Ultimate Hire Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Manufacturing & Industrial SOP Bundle, Ultimate Steel & Metal Fabrication SOP Bundle and Ultimate Transport & Warehousing SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover LPG and electric forklifts?
Yes. It covers LPG, diesel, petrol and battery-electric forklifts, including LPG cylinder changeover and battery charging. Order-picking forklifts (LO licence) aren't covered and need their own procedure.
Does it include licence requirements?
Yes. Operators confirm they hold a current LF high risk work licence, or are operating under direct supervision as part of recognised training, before they start.
What's the difference between an SOP and a SWMS?
An SOP sets out how to operate equipment or do a task safely, step by step, and is used for training and competency sign-off. A SWMS is required for high risk construction work and records the hazards and controls for a specific job. If forklift work is part of high risk construction work, you'll need a SWMS as well.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
