When Will a Forklift Licence Issued in the UK Expire? Its Renewal & Cost

When Will a Forklift Licence Issued in the UK Expire? If you are in possession of a forklift licence issued in the UK, you may be thinking when will it expire?

Please do remember that the licence you are holding is actually an operator card/certificate proving that you’ve undergone a certification course in the past.

With that being said, the employers want to know if you are holding a current licence that was recently issued proving that you’ve just recertified.

It is important for them because they don’t want to get into any trouble with the law if the forklift operator they hired got involved in an accident caused by an improperly trained worker.

The expiry of the forklift licence is a big deal for employers if you are looking for a job.

That’s why you need to have an up-to-date licence. Renewal will be necessary if you have an old and already expired one.

Let’s first discuss when will your forklift licence expires in the UK.

Legislation Governing Forklift Operation in the UK

The operation of forklifts in the UK is regulated by several legislative bodies. The main legislative instruments include the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) and the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).

PUWER stipulates that any equipment provided for use at work, including forklifts, must be suitable for the intended use, maintained in a safe condition, and inspected regularly to ensure it is correctly installed and does not subsequently deteriorate.

LOLER, on the other hand, focuses on the safety aspects of lifting equipment and operations. It requires that all lifting operations involving lifting equipment are properly planned, appropriately supervised, and carried out in a safe manner.

UK-specific Requirements for Acquiring a Forklift Licence

Acquiring a forklift licence in the UK requires undergoing a comprehensive training program from an accredited training provider. This usually involves theoretical instruction, practical training, and an assessment of the operator's ability to manage the forklift safely.

The operator must be at least 16 years old to operate a forklift in a workplace. However, operators under 18 should be supervised and the use should be risk assessed. There's no formal "licence" per se, but operators must hold a certificate of Basic Training.

Legal Penalties for Operating a Forklift Without a Valid Licence

Operating a forklift without a valid licence (or certificate of Basic Training) can lead to significant legal penalties. Both the operator and the employer can be held liable in such cases. Penalties can include fines and, in the case of serious incidents leading to injury or death, imprisonment.

In addition, operating a forklift without a valid licence can lead to invalidated insurance coverage in the event of an accident, leading to potentially significant financial consequences.

It's worth noting that an employer who allows an untrained employee to operate a forklift can be in breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which could result in prosecution and penalties as well.

How Long Does the Forklift Licence Last?

The forklift licence you have in your possession is your proof of qualification for the job. However, retraining must be conducted.

HSE ACoP 'Rider-operated lift trucks Operator training and safe use' paragraph 79 states: "There is no specific time period after which you need to provide refresher training or formal assessment. You may decide that automatic refresher training or a retest after a set period (for example 3-5 years) is the best way to make sure employees remain competent."

The HSE recommends that forklift drivers are supplied with refresher training and regular evaluation during that time period.

The more frequent the refresher training, of course, the better for the operators.

Another thing why you need to be retrained every three years is that your personal and training details will be put into the register of the National Operator Registration Scheme (NORS) for three (3) years from the last completion of a forklift certification course.

The NORS is some sort of centralized database of all forklift drivers who have undergone RTITB-accredited training.

If you’ve been previously registered in NORS, you might have received a notification six (6) months prior to expiration informing you that your registration is due to end. In that way, prepare and persuade you to have your forklift licence renewed and retake the refresher course.

Timeframe for the Validity of a Forklift Licence

In the UK, a forklift operator's certificate of Basic Training doesn't have a formal expiration date. However, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Code of Practice (ACOP), it's recommended that operators receive refresher training and retesting every three to five years.

In certain cases, refresher training might be required sooner. This could be the case if the operator is seen to operate the vehicle dangerously, they have been involved in an accident, there's a change in the workplace conditions or the type of equipment used, or a deficiency is identified in the operator’s performance.

Significance of Keeping Track of Licence Expiry

While there isn't a formal expiration, tracking the dates for refresher training is crucial for maintaining safety standards. Frequent training ensures that operators remain updated with best practices and safety protocols, and it helps keep skills sharp.

The employer is generally responsible for tracking these dates and ensuring that all operators undergo the necessary refresher training. Failing to do so can expose the employer to liability in the event of an accident or inspection by health and safety officers.

Consequences of Licence Expiry for the Operator and the Employer

If refresher training is not completed within the recommended timeframe, the operator could be considered as untrained or under-qualified. If an operator is involved in an accident or a safety violation, both the operator and the employer could face severe consequences.

These could include fines and legal penalties, and it might even involve criminal charges in the case of serious accidents. In addition, it could lead to increased insurance premiums or voided insurance coverage. For the employer, it could also result in damage to their reputation and potential loss of business. It's in the best interest of both parties to ensure refresher training is completed as recommended.

Other Reasons Why You Need to Retake the Forklift Refresher Course

It is natural for forklift operators to lose their skills if they do not practice them regularly, therefore, refresher training is necessary
Even if you drive a fork truck every day it is strongly advised for you to take refresher to keep safe driving practices
So that you can learn new skills and be acquainted with the newly introduced piece of equipment
To take reevaluation of your skills and competency level
Employers facilitate regular training to keep knowledge of their workers current
Employers supply routine training to their operators related to the proper operation of the forklift and workplace safety

The refresher course can also be given during instances such as:

If the forklift driver is assigned to operate a different type of forklift he is not familiar with
If the employer introduced different types of equipment in the workplace
If there are tight changes in the working environment due to the business operation is in full swing
If the internal company safety procedures and operational policies change
If there is a serious risk that the forklift operators may be exposed to
If the worker is involved in an incident such as a near miss, property damage and accident

Renewal of Licence

Operating a forklift in the workplace without the proper licence is risky. You and your company could be penalized heavily.

You or your company could be fined £5,000 up to £50,000 depending on the gravity and omission of the penalty.

Therefore, it is essential for you to have your licence renewed when it is due to expire.

You can renew your forklift licence by taking a refresher course, either supplied by your own company (if you’re employed) or by a third-party training provider (if you are no longer employed).

If you are not employed, which is more likely your case, you can contact a training school near where you are. We have a directory of forklift training schools. Just browse the menu, and choose your location, there you will find them.

If you’re employed, it is your company that is responsible to provide you with the training you need. The training can be done on-site, in the actual workplace. The ideal method of delivery of training is in the actual workplace so that the training instructor can alter the course to suit the current condition of the workplace.

Pre-conditions for Renewal

To undergo refresher training, an operator must have previously completed basic forklift training and hold a valid certificate of Basic Training. The refresher training should be suitable to the operator’s needs, based on the type and capacity of forklift they will operate, the tasks they will perform, and the specific conditions of the working environment.

Operators should also be in good physical condition, as the operation of a forklift can be physically demanding. If an operator has any health conditions that might affect their ability to operate a forklift safely, these should be assessed and addressed before they undertake refresher training.

Documentation Required for Licence Renewal

When attending refresher training, an operator will need to provide their existing certificate of Basic Training, or some evidence of having passed basic training in the past. If the operator cannot provide such evidence, they may need to undergo basic training again. The employer will also need to provide details of the specific type and capacity of forklift the operator will be using, and the conditions in which they will be working.

Procedure for Renewing a Forklift Licence

The "renewal" of a forklift licence, or more accurately, the refresher training process, usually consists of both theory and practical elements.

The theory component includes a review of forklift operations, safety standards, and regulations. The practical component involves hands-on forklift operation under the supervision of a certified instructor.

Upon completion of the refresher training, the operator will usually need to pass a test to demonstrate their understanding of the training material and their practical operating skills. Once they pass, they will be issued a new certificate of Basic Training.

It's recommended to contact a reputable, accredited training provider to arrange for refresher training. The employer typically arranges and pays for the refresher training, as part of their duty to ensure that all forklift operators are properly trained.

Cost of Renewal

The cost of renewing your forklift licence varies.

The refresher course costs around £200-£350. The amount will depend on the type of forklift you want to get retrained to.

The refresher course is cheaper compared to taking novice training.

The length of the course is also shorter since you have already undergone training in the past. To complete a refresher course, you have to spend a day or two taking the training, depending on the type of truck and depth of the course.

If you are working for a company, the employer may cover the cost of retraining.

The training can be conducted at the worksite or on the school premise.

The Role of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in Forklift Operations

Importance of Continuous Training and Refreshers for Forklift Operators

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) plays a vital role in forklift operations. Due to the nature of forklift work, continuous training and refreshers are crucial to maintaining high safety standards, improving operational efficiency, and keeping up to date with ever-evolving industry practices and regulations.

Forklifts can be dangerous if operated incorrectly, posing risks not just to the operator, but also to co-workers, other site visitors, and the general public. CPD helps to reinforce the correct safety procedures and operational practices, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the overall safety of the workplace.

In addition to safety, CPD also aids in enhancing an operator's skills and efficiency. The more training an operator has, the more confident and skilled they will become. This can lead to increased productivity, improved morale, and decreased downtime due to fewer accidents and mechanical issues.

How CPD Can Help Keep Licences Valid and Ensure Safer Operations

CPD is an essential part of keeping a forklift operator's licence valid. In the UK, it is recommended that operators receive refresher training every three to five years, or more frequently if necessary. This training can be seen as part of the operator’s CPD, as it helps to keep their knowledge and skills current.

By undergoing regular refresher training, operators can ensure their licence remains valid and their skills stay sharp. CPD provides an opportunity to update their understanding of safety regulations, learn about any changes in equipment or operational practices, and refresh their practical skills under the supervision of a certified instructor.

Moreover, CPD promotes a culture of safety, learning, and professionalism in the workplace. It shows a commitment to high standards of operation and safety, which can lead to benefits such as lower insurance premiums, reduced liability, and a better reputation in the industry. Therefore, investing in CPD is beneficial for both the operators and their employers.

Common Myths and Misconceptions about Forklift Licence Expiry

Clarifying Common Misunderstandings About the Validity and Renewal of Forklift Licences

Myth 1: Forklift licences expire after a specific period - In the UK, there's a common misconception that forklift licences, or more accurately, certificates of Basic Training, expire after a certain period. While it's true that refresher training is recommended every three to five years, the certificate itself does not have a formal expiration date.

Myth 2: If your licence expires, you have to start over - If an operator doesn't undergo refresher training within the recommended time, they don't have to start over from scratch. However, it's the employer's responsibility to ensure all operators are adequately trained, and some employers might require an operator to undergo basic training again if they've gone too long without refresher training.

Myth 3: Any forklift licence is valid for all types of forklifts - A forklift operator's certificate is specific to the type of forklift they've been trained on and the conditions under which they've been assessed. An operator trained on a counterbalance forklift, for example, is not automatically qualified to operate a reach truck.

Legal Realities vs Common Assumptions

Reality 1: It's the employer's responsibility - It's a common assumption that it's entirely the operator's responsibility to keep their forklift licence current. In reality, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a duty on employers to provide adequate training, which includes ensuring operators undergo refresher training as needed.

Reality 2: Refresher training is a recommendation, not a legal requirement - While it's often assumed that refresher training is a legal requirement, it's actually a recommendation according to the HSE Approved Code of Practice (ACOP). However, most employers follow this recommendation as a best practice.

Reality 3: Forklift operators can be held liable for accidents - There's a common assumption that only the employer can be held liable for accidents involving forklifts. In reality, if an operator has been negligent or has willingly operated a forklift without proper training, they can also be held liable.

Best Practices for Managing Forklift Licence Expiry

Suggestions for Operators on Staying Current with Licence Validity

Regularly Review Knowledge and Skills: Operators should take it upon themselves to frequently review their knowledge and skills. This could involve reading up on the latest safety regulations, practicing operation procedures, or even attending extra training sessions.

Be Aware of Training Dates: Operators should keep track of when they last underwent training and when their refresher training is due. This can help avoid a lapse in the recommended training cycle.
Be Proactive: If an operator feels they need additional training or if changes in their work conditions warrant a refresher course, they should be proactive and discuss this with their employer.
Keep Records: Keeping a personal record of all completed training courses and certificates can be very helpful, especially when changing jobs or if an employer's records are incomplete or lost.

Advice for Employers on Tracking and Ensuring Their Staff's Licences are Up-to-Date

Create a Tracking System: Employers should implement a robust system to track training dates for all forklift operators. This could be a simple spreadsheet or a software system designed for tracking training.
Regular Audits: Regular audits of training records can ensure that no operator's training falls through the cracks. These audits should check when each operator’s last training took place and when their next training is due.
Mandatory Refresher Training: Even though refresher training is a recommendation and not a legal requirement, it should be considered mandatory within the company. This can help keep all operators’ skills sharp and maintain high safety standards.
Training Adjustments: Employers should also adjust training requirements based on changes in the workplace, such as the introduction of new equipment or changes in safety regulations. Remember, training should be tailored to the operator’s specific needs and work conditions.
Foster a Culture of Safety: Creating a safety culture within the company can encourage operators to take training seriously and to keep their licences up-to-date. Regular safety meetings, incentives for safe operation, and open communication about safety can all contribute to this culture.

To Conclude This

the importance of proper training and timely refresher courses for forklift operators in the UK cannot be understated. While it's often misunderstood that forklift licences or certificates of Basic Training have a formal expiry date, following the HSE's recommendation for refresher training every three to five years is a best practice that significantly contributes to the safety and efficiency of forklift operations.

Employers bear a substantial responsibility under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to ensure their staff are adequately trained. Tracking training dates and ensuring all operators receive regular refresher training is not only crucial for legal compliance but also pivotal in creating a safer, more productive working environment.

For operators, being proactive in managing their training cycles, staying updated with current safety regulations, and seeking refresher training when necessary are key to maintaining their professional skills and supporting a safe workspace.

Dispelling common myths and misconceptions about forklift licence expiry and refresher training helps ensure all parties understand their responsibilities. It fosters a more knowledgeable and safety-conscious culture within the workplace.

The subject of forklift licence expiry might appear mundane, but its implications reach far beyond mere compliance. It serves as an essential cog in the wheel of continuous professional development, promoting safer operations, and preserving the health and safety of all individuals in the workplace. By keeping these best practices in mind, both employers and operators can contribute to a more efficient and safety-focused working environment.

Ultimately, staying abreast of refresher training schedules isn't just about keeping a licence valid. It's a fundamental investment in safety, skill development, and the creation of a proactive and responsible work culture. As the old saying goes, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure", and nowhere is that more applicable than in the world of forklift operation.

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When Will a Forklift Licence Issued in the UK Expire?