Forklift licence practice questions

10 free sample questions

1. Licence, law and duties

   What licence do you need to operate a counterbalance forklift in NSW?

   1. A high risk work licence, class LF, issued by SafeWork NSW
   2. A car licence
   3. A white card
   4. No licence for work on private property, only for forklifts driven on public roads
   Show answer

   A. A high risk work licence, class LF, issued by SafeWork NSW

   Forklift operation is high risk work under the WHS Regulation. The LF class covers forklift trucks; LO covers order-picking forklifts. A white card is construction induction, not a plant licence.

   Source: WHS Regulation 2017 (NSW), Schedule 3; TLILIC0003

2. Planning the job and hazards

   Before you start work, who should you talk to about hazards in the area, and why?

   1. Not yet
   2. Got it
   Show answer

   B. Got it

   Consultation is a legal duty and the fastest way to learn what has changed since your last shift.

   Source: WHS Act 2011 (NSW), s 47–49; TLILIC0003 Element 1

3. Pre-start checks and shutdown

   Name six pre-start (pre-operational) checks you should do on a forklift before you start work.

   1. Not yet
   2. Got it
   Show answer

   B. Got it

   Do the walk-around with the engine off, then the operational checks (brakes, steering, lift and tilt) at low speed. Record it in the logbook.

   Source: TLILIC0003 Element 2: conduct routine checks

4. Loads, load centre and stability

   What is a forklift's 'load centre'?

   1. The horizontal distance from the fork face (heel) to the load's centre of gravity
   2. The middle of the pallet
   3. The vertical distance from the floor to the load's centre of gravity when it is lifted
   4. The point where the forklift balances
   Show answer

   A. The horizontal distance from the fork face (heel) to the load's centre of gravity

   Most data plates state capacity at a 600 mm load centre, which suits a standard 1,200 mm pallet with the load evenly spread and the forks fully under it. The load centre is measured from the vertical face of the forks (the heel).

   Source: AS 2359.2; TLILIC0003 Element 3

5. Calculations

   A pallet holds 40 cartons that each weigh 25 kg. The empty pallet weighs 30 kg. What is the total weight of the load?

   1. Incorrect
   2. Correct
   Show answer

   B. Correct

   40 × 25 kg = 1,000 kg, plus the 30 kg pallet = 1,030 kg. Always include the pallet, crate or drum in the total.

   Source: TLILIC0003: load calculations

6. Operating safely

   How should you carry a load while travelling?

   1. As low as practicable (about 150 mm, just clear of the ground) with the mast tilted back
   2. At eye level so you can see it
   3. As high as possible to clear obstacles
   4. Raised to about chest height with the mast tilted forward, ready to place at the next rack
   Show answer

   A. As low as practicable (about 150 mm, just clear of the ground) with the mast tilted back

   A low, tilted-back load keeps the centre of gravity inside the stability triangle. Raise the load only when you are stopped at the rack.

   Source: TLILIC0003 Element 3: travel with loads

7. Power lines, fuel, docks and ramps

   What are the minimum safe approach distances for a forklift (or any mobile plant) working near overhead power lines in NSW?

   1. Not yet
   2. Got it
   Show answer

   B. Got it

   Allow for line sag and swing, load swing, and operator error. Electricity can arc across a gap; you don't need to touch the line to be killed.

   Source: SafeWork NSW: Mobile plant operating near overhead power lines (SW08833); Code of Practice: Work near overhead and underground electric lines

8. Licence, law and duties

   Name three things the WHS regulator (SafeWork NSW) can do to a high risk work licence holder who does not work safely.

   1. Not yet
   2. Got it
   Show answer

   B. Got it

   The licence is conditional on working safely. The regulator can also prosecute the employer (PCBU) if it allowed unsafe work.

   Source: WHS Regulation 2017 (NSW), Part 4.5 (high risk work licences)

9. Planning the job and hazards

   Name seven workplace hazards you must look out for when operating a forklift.

   1. Not yet
   2. Got it
   Show answer

   B. Got it

   Pedestrians are the hazard most often involved in forklift deaths. Walk the route before you drive it.

   Source: TLILIC0003 Element 1: plan work; WorkSafe guide: Forklift safety

10. Pre-start checks and shutdown

    During your pre-start check you find a hydraulic hose weeping oil. What should you do?

    1. Don't use it: tag it out of service, report the fault and have it repaired by a competent person
    2. Wipe the hose, note it on the checklist and keep working; a small weep is normal on older forklifts
    3. Top up the oil and check again at lunch
    4. Use it only for light loads
    Show answer

    A. Don't use it: tag it out of service, report the fault and have it repaired by a competent person

    A hose failure under load can drop the load or the mast. Only a qualified mechanic may repair the forklift.

    Source: TLILIC0003 Element 2: report faults

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Official links

• High risk work licences — SafeWork NSW
• What the unit covers (TLILIC0003)
• Get an assessment enrolment number
• Apply for the licence after you pass