The Long and short of it is no, a forklift license is not a mandatory requirement. However, there are a number of requirements that have been set to ensure operators and pedestrians are safe. The requirements include age and health.
Age
Anyone over the age of 16 can drive a forklift. There is the option for school leavers to enroll on a forklift course. Whilst the license is not a requirement, opting to complete a course can be the difference between getting the job and not. Choosing to take a course will demonstrate a positive attitude and also show that you are genuinely interested in a career that requires you to operate a forklift. Any forklift training course completed will provide you with a forklift certificate or award. Showing this during your interview will increase your chances of getting the job.
Typically, training courses won’t take on anyone under the age of 17. You may also find that employers won’t hire anyone under the age of 18. You can still apply for a job, but based on this information it might be a wiser decision to get a job in a forklift environment and then progress as you reach the age that employers prefer.
If you are over the age of 65, you may find that employer ask that you have your eyes checked annually. This ensures that you and the people around you remain safe when you are operating a forklift.
Health
To operate a forklift, you need to pass the same medical requirements noted on a driving license. This includes hearing, vision and a number of other factors. Read more below.
Hearing
If you are medically suffering from deafness, you may find that you will be unable to operate a forklift. Hearing is an essential part of driving a forklift as it allows you to respond to warnings or instructions. Lacking the required hearing can result in reduced hazard perception which can proof to be extremely risky. Hearing is an essential part to ensure that anyone close to the forklift remains safe.
Vision
Driving a forklift requires good judgment. In some cases, you can drive if you have modular vision, however, full vision in both eyes improves depth perception which makes it easier to safely move around the building. Forklift drivers must pass the same visual test that a driving license requires. If you do require glasses, these should always be worn when in the driving seat of a forklift.
Epileptic Fits
If you do have epilepsy and still want to operate a forklift, you should seek advice as there is still a chance so long as you do not have regular seizures.
General
It is important that you have full control over your body movements when driving a forklift. This means you are agile and can move your neck and all limbs. There is no requirement for individuals suffering from mental health, though it is better to be honest with yourself before operating a forklift. If you feel you or anyone else around you may be at risk as a result of your mental health, it may be best to choose an alternative role.
Based on all the available information in this article you should know whether you are eligible to drive a forklift.
Forklifts are extremely useful and can really improve business and operations. We at Trucks Direct speak with many forklift drivers so we are confident when we say it is an enjoyable role to fill.