Use of Mobile Phone

While There are no regulations that relate to the use of mobile devices whilst operating forklift trucks or machinery.

The use of a Mobile phone or similar hand-held device while operating a vehicle on a public road is against the law. A workplace environment is not any less hazardous than a public road. Ability Handling therefore suggest that it be good practice to ban the use of any hand-held phone or similar device while operating a forklift truck.

It has been considered that the use of a hands-free mobile phone can also be a causse of distraction. There may be an operational reason for wishing to use a hands-free mobile phone, but this is strongly not recommended and such use should certainly be subject to risk assessment. There are a number of special communication systems that are available and can assist with activities such as order picking and stock taking. Mobile devices should not be used for these types of activity.

It would be good practice to ban the use of a hands-free mobile phone for personal use whilst operating a forklift truck.

The use of non-integrated working platforms on forklift trucks requires suitable communication between the operator of the forklift truck and the persons on the working platform. The method of communication to be used will form part of the risk assessment, but it may be that the use of hands-free mobile phones

Ability Handling Strongly Recommend Banning the use of all Mobile Devices while using a Forklift Truck