Do forklift certificates have an expiry date?

Unlike a driving licence, forklift certificates don’t actually run out. However, it is a recommendation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that all forklift operators take a refresher course. This is down to the employers discretion and usually no longer than every three years. Employers are hot on the tail of such action due to company regulations to reduce the risk of a claim. Insurance policies usually insist certificates are kept up to date too.

Although in-house training is perfectly acceptable, it is the employers’ responsibility to thoroughly check that all documentation towards certificates and training is legitimate. Companies often use their own trainers so it is essential they meet the required criteria and are properly accredited. It is always advised certificates are checked for any duplicitous information and they can be easily validated by a relevant accreditation body. This means any UK recognised bodies such as the ITSAR, RTITB, including the registration number of the examiner, should be checked to avoid any fines or legal action being taken.