What licensing and training is required for forklift operators on construction sites?
Forklift operators must hold a current High Risk Work Licence for the specific class of forklift being operated (LF - Forklift Truck or LO - Order Picking Forklift). This national licence, issued by state and territory work health and safety regulators, requires successful completion of both theoretical and practical assessment by a registered training organisation. Beyond licensing, operators require site-specific induction covering traffic management arrangements, load types and capacities, exclusion zones, emergency procedures, and communication protocols. SWMS documentation should specify that only licensed and competent operators may use forklifts, and should outline the process for verifying currency of licences. Refresher training should be provided when operators are exposed to new equipment, changed site conditions, or following incidents. Supervisors responsible for forklift operations should also understand operational requirements and regulatory obligations to effectively oversee activities.
How do I manage vehicle and pedestrian separation on congested construction sites?
Effective vehicle-pedestrian separation requires a hierarchy of controls starting with elimination where possible. This includes scheduling deliveries outside peak work hours, using off-site prefabrication to reduce vehicle movements, and consolidating deliveries. Where vehicle access is necessary, engineering controls should establish physical barriers such as pedestrian walkways protected by barriers, designated vehicle-only zones with controlled access points, and one-way traffic systems to reduce conflict points. Administrative controls include traffic management plans showing vehicle routes and pedestrian paths, exclusion zones enforced during reversing and loading operations, spotter requirements for high-risk movements, and visual and audible warning systems on vehicles. SWMS must specify these controls clearly, identify responsibilities for traffic management, and outline communication protocols between drivers, spotters and workers. Regular audits should verify compliance, with controls adjusted as site layouts change during construction phases.
What are the key requirements for securing loads on heavy vehicles?
Load securing must comply with the Load Restraint Guide published by the National Transport Commission, which provides performance standards and prescriptive methods for various load types. All loads must be secured to withstand forces in all directions including 0.8g forward, 0.5g rearward, 0.5g sideways, and 0.2g vertical. This typically requires a combination of direct restraint (chains, straps, lashings) and indirect restraint (friction, vehicle structure, blocking). SWMS documentation should specify that operators must calculate the number and capacity of restraints required based on load weight, type and configuration. Pre-transport checks must verify all restraints are properly tensioned and connected to rated anchor points, with no damage to restraint equipment. Workers performing load securing must be trained in proper techniques, understand load centre of gravity principles, and use appropriate personal protective equipment including high-visibility clothing. Documentation should include inspection intervals during long journeys, particularly when travelling on rough terrain, and procedures for rectifying inadequate restraint.
How should fatigue be managed for long-distance transport operations?
Fatigue management must comply with Heavy Vehicle National Law and associated fatigue management regulations. Most construction transport operations will use either Standard Hours or Basic Fatigue Management, both requiring compliance with maximum work and minimum rest requirements. Standard Hours limit driving to 12 hours in any 24-hour period and 72 hours in any 7 consecutive days, with mandatory rest breaks. Work diaries must be maintained for verification. SWMS should specify which hours apply, outline the process for journey planning including scheduled rest breaks, and establish procedures for drivers to report fatigue concerns without penalty. The broader Chain of Responsibility legislation extends legal responsibility to all parties who can influence transport operations, including those scheduling deliveries, loading vehicles, or setting delivery timeframes. SWMS documentation should acknowledge these responsibilities and specify that delivery schedules must allow adequate time for journeys complying with fatigue requirements. For higher-risk operations, consider implementing Basic or Advanced Fatigue Management schemes providing more flexibility with enhanced controls.
What environmental controls are needed for warehouse and yard operations with forklifts?
Warehouse and yard operations using forklifts must address air quality, particularly where diesel or LPG-powered equipment operates in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. Engineering controls should prioritise electric forklifts for indoor use, maximise natural ventilation through roller doors and vents, and implement mechanical ventilation systems where required. LPG forklifts produce carbon monoxide, requiring atmospheric monitoring in enclosed spaces. SWMS should specify that only equipment suitable for the operating environment is used, with diesel forklifts generally restricted to outdoor or well-ventilated areas. Surface conditions must provide stable, level ground with adequate drainage, appropriate lighting levels (minimum 50 lux for general warehouse areas, higher for inspection tasks), and clear demarcation of traffic routes, storage areas and pedestrian zones. Environmental considerations extend to noise control for workers and neighbours, dust suppression on unsealed yards, and containment of potential spills including fuel, hydraulic fluid and battery acid. SWMS should specify inspection frequencies for warehouse environments, outline corrective actions when deficiencies are identified, and establish procedures for adapting operations to seasonal variations such as wet weather affecting yard surfaces.
