Understanding Forklift Attachments: Training Needs and Legal Implications

When we think about forklifts, most of us picture the standard two-tine forks moving pallets around a warehouse. But in reality, many Australian businesses use a wide range of forklift attachments—from clamps and rotators to jibs and custom-designed equipment—tailored to specific industries. These attachments improve versatility, but they also come with extra safety risks, training requirements, and legal obligations.

If your team is using or planning to use forklift attachments, it’s essential to understand what’s required under Australian law to stay compliant and keep your workplace safe.

What Are Forklift Attachments?

Forklift attachments are devices added to a forklift’s carriage that enhance or change its functionality. Common examples in Australian workplaces include:

• Rotators – for tipping loads, such as bins in waste or food processing industries
• Clamps – for handling appliances, drums, paper rolls or bales without pallets
• Slippers and extensions – for extending the reach of forks
• Jibs and hooks – for lifting using chains or slings, often used in manufacturing
• Custom attachments – industry-specific tools like carpet spikes or push-pull attachments for slip sheet handling

These attachments alter how a forklift operates, which can significantly impact safety and load stability.

Are There Legal Requirements for Using Attachments in Australia?

Yes—absolutely. Under Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, using attachments without proper assessment and training can result in serious legal consequences.

According to Safe Work Australia, any modification or attachment that changes the forklift’s rated capacity, stability, or operation is considered a modification of plant. That means:

• You must have written approval from the manufacturer or a competent person (e.g. an engineer) as the attachment needs to be compatible with the forklift.
• The attachment must be listed in the plant risk assessment and the company’s safety procedures
• Operators must be trained and competent in using the specific attachment
• The forklift’s load capacity plate must be updated to reflect any changes in lifting capacity
• The attachment must be locked onto the forklift with split pins, chains, hooks etc

Failing to meet these conditions may breach Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011, which could result in fines or enforcement actions from your state’s regulator (e.g. WorkSafe Victoria, SafeWork NSW).

Training Requirements: It’s Not One and Done

If a worker holds a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) for forklift operation (LF or LO), they’re certified to use a forklift—but not automatically competent to use every attachment.

Training must be site-specific and include:

• Safe use of the attachment
• Understanding the revised load capacity (For eg. If the forklift has a lifting capacity of 2000kgs and the attachment has a lifting capacity of 1000kgs, then your lifting capacity, while using the attachment, is now 1000kgs).
• Pre-use inspections for the attachment
• Specific hazards related to the attachment (e.g. crush risks, centre of gravity shifts)
• Emergency procedures in case of attachment failure

This training should be documented and ideally delivered by a competent person, such as a certified trainer or experienced supervisor. Many Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in Australia offer customised training for businesses with specialised equipment.

What About Custom Attachments?

In sectors like mining, construction, or recycling, it’s common to see non-standard or custom-built attachments. These offer increased efficiency but also higher risk if not properly assessed and approved.

Before introducing any custom attachment, you must:

• Engage an engineer to design or inspect it
• Ensure it complies with Australian Standards (e.g. AS 2359 for powered industrial trucks)
• Update your Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)
• Conduct a risk assessment and load test
• Re-train operators accordingly

Never allow your team to fabricate or modify attachments onsite without the input of a qualified expert. This could void your equipment warranty and breach WHS legislation.

Why It Matters: Real-World Risks and Costs

Forklift attachments, when used incorrectly, have been linked to tipping accidents, crush injuries, and property damage. For example, using rotators without proper training has led to bins tipping over and loads falling on workers. Over-extending forks using slippers without considering capacity can cause the forklift to become unstable.

Aside from human costs, these incidents can result in:

• Fines and legal action under the WHS Act
• Insurance claims denial due to non-compliance
• Operational downtime from damaged equipment or injured staff

By staying proactive about training and documentation, you not only meet legal obligations but protect your team and your business.

Key Takeaways for Australian Workplaces

• A forklift licence does not cover all attachments – additional training is required.
• You must assess, document, and control the risks associated with each attachment.
• Modifications or custom attachments need engineering approval and updated compliance records.
• Always update your load rating plate to reflect changes in capacity.
• Keep training records on file and refresh them regularly, especially when attachments are introduced or changed.

Final Thoughts: Versatility Without Compromise

Attachments can make your forklift fleet more versatile and efficient—but only if they’re used safely and legally. By investing in proper training and compliance, you’ll ensure your team has the skills to handle specialised equipment and reduce your risk of costly incidents.

If your business uses or is planning to use forklift attachments, now’s the time to review your current training and safety documentation. And if you’re unsure where to begin, reach out to a trusted RTO that can deliver tailored training for your team.