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Jofson is one of the largest independent suppliers of forklift trucks and materials handling equipment in Birmingham and Manchester. We have been around since 1977 and offer new and used forklifts to companies so that they can hire and buy.

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At Jofson, we understand that whether you’re running a small warehouse or managing a large distribution centre, keeping up with forklift rules and regulations is essential for the safety of your team and the efficiency of your operations. With ever-evolving legislation, staying informed is vital to ensuring your business is compliant and safe. As a trusted supplier of Mitsubishi forklifts across Manchester and Birmingham, we are committed to helping our clients across various industries navigate these regulations. Below, we’ll guide you through five critical forklift rules and regulations you need to be aware of in 2024, whether you’re new to material handling or have years of experience.

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998

LOLER is a critical regulation for businesses that rely on forklifts for day-to-day operations. It covers the safe operation of all lifting equipment, including forklifts, cranes, and platforms. Under LOLER, lifting operations must be properly planned, supervised, and carried out using safe and fit equipment.

Critical aspects of LOLER include:

  • Annual thorough examinations: Much like an MOT for your forklifts, this ensures that the mechanical parts of your trucks are safe and working efficiently.
  • Safe working load markings: Forklifts must be clearly labelled to prevent overloading and reduce the risk of accidents.
  • Competent supervision: To ensure safety, lifting operations need to be managed by a person with the proper knowledge and expertise.

For Jofson customers, adhering to LOLER regulations is not just about compliance—it’s about creating a safer, more efficient workplace.

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998

PUWER is another essential regulation that applies to all equipment, including forklifts. Its primary goal is to ensure that your business’s work equipment is safe for its intended purpose. To comply with PUWER, you must ensure the following:

  • Ensure forklifts are fit for their tasks: This includes ensuring they’re properly maintained and regularly inspected.
  • A detailed maintenance log helps track repairs and ongoing safety checks.
  • Train your operators: Every forklift operator must be adequately trained to ensure safe operation and effective use of the equipment.

At Jofson, we provide a range of Mitsubishi forklifts that meet PUWER standards, ensuring your equipment is reliable and safe for everyday operations.

Operator Training and the Approved Code of Practice (L117)

Proper training is at the heart of forklift safety. The L117 Approved Code of Practice offers clear guidelines on ensuring your forklift operators are trained to the highest standards, reducing the risk of accidents and damage.

Key training areas include:

  • Safe loading and stacking: Ensuring operators know how to handle loads safely is critical to warehouse efficiency and safety.
  • Pedestrian safety: Operators must know pedestrians and other workers around forklifts.
  • Ongoing training: Regular refresher courses are recommended to keep skills up-to-date.

For Jofson clients, investing in operator training is about compliance, protecting their workforce, and maintaining productivity.

Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)

The Health and Safety at Work Act outlines employers’ duty to provide a safe working environment. This regulation is essential for those managing material-handling equipment, such as forklifts.

The act requires that you:

  • Maintaining a safe working environment includes regular equipment inspections and clear safety procedures.
  • Provide proper training and supervision: Ensure your staff knows the risks and how to mitigate them.
  • Create a written health and safety policy: If you employ five or more people, this policy should outline your approach to maintaining a safe workspace.

At Jofson, we know that compliance with this act is vital to protecting your team and helping prevent downtime, fines, and potential legal action.

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999)

Effective risk management is critical to a safe workplace, and these regulations focus on assessing and controlling risks in your operations. Forklifts can pose several risks, from collisions to load shifts, making regular assessments essential.

Under this regulation, you must:

  • Conduct regular risk assessments: Document your findings and implement preventive measures.
  • Monitor and review risks: Stay on top of any changes in your working environment that may introduce new hazards.
  • Train employees on risk management: Ensure your team knows how to identify and mitigate risks.

By staying proactive in risk management, Jofson clients can ensure a safer workplace and minimise disruptions to their operations. It is vital that you share all the rules and regulations of forklift management with your team before hiring or buying a forklift. 

Staying Compliant and Safe with Jofson

Navigating forklift regulations can seem overwhelming, but Jofson is here to support you every step of the way. From ensuring your Mitsubishi forklifts meet LOLER and PUWER standards to offering operator training that aligns with L117, we help businesses across the West Midlands and the North West stay compliant, safe, and productive. All you need to do is contact us to hire or buy a Mitsubishi forklift, and we will do the rest. 

At Jofson, your safety and operational success are our top priorities. Let us help you take the stress out of forklift compliance and keep your business moving forward in 2024.