The obligation
Employers must ensure forklift operators are suitable in all respects; a driver's licence alone does not show a person is qualified.
It is the employer's responsibility to ensure the person operating the forklift is suitable in all respects. Holding a driver's licence is not sufficient evidence that a person is qualified to operate a forklift. Operators must comply with the relevant code of practice and are responsible for their own safety, the safety of others and the safety of property.
- What
- Employers must ensure forklift operators are suitable in all respects; a driver's licence alone does not show a person is qualified.
- Source
- worksafe.govt.nz
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Selecting forklift operators and operator responsibilities is a WHS requirement set out in Training operators and instructors of powered industrial lift trucks (forklifts) (NZ). It is made under Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (NZ).
What does this WHS obligation require?
Selecting forklift operators and operator responsibilities is a WHS obligation under Training operators and instructors of powered industrial lift trucks (forklifts) (NZ). In short, Employers must ensure forklift operators are suitable in all respects; a driver's licence alone does not show a person is qualified.
What changed recently?
Selecting forklift operators and operator responsibilities was last updated on 9 October 2026.
