Yes.

However, WorkCover no longer issues authorisation for forklift truck platforms.

Designers, manufacturers and suppliers of forklifts (including their components or accessories), have a general duty of care under Section 11 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000.

Their general duty includes ensuring that the plant is safe and without risks to health when properly used. They must also provide (or arrange for the provision) of adequate information about the plant to the persons to whom it is supplied in order to ensure its safe use.

In order to satisfy the general duty of care, the Australian Standard AS2359, “Powered Industrial Trucks,” or an equivalent method or practice may be followed. This Standard prescribes design, manufacturing and work practices for a range of powered industrial trucks, including forklifts. Refer to Standards Australia.

The Standard states that anyone needing to be raised in a work platform to perform "special tasks of short duration" may do so, provided a properly designed platform is fitted to the forklift truck for that purpose.

"Special tasks of short duration" means work that requires the platform to remain in one location for a limited time.

In the case of repeated operation at frequent intervals, the use of other suitable equipment is advised.

The Standard also prohibits the use of a forklift platform for order picking, production or stores activities. Forklifts are designed to raise, lower and travel with a load. They are not to be used as a general mode of transport in any area.

The OHS Regulation 2001, Clause 142 (3) (d) (i) to (vi) inclusive identifies control measures for plant designed to lift or move. Refer to OHS Regulation 2001

• The person in charge of the appliance is responsible for regular inspections of the general safe condition and lift chains on the appliance
• Under the Australian Standard AS 2359 “Powered Industrial Trucks” Part 1 General Requirements Section 12.3.1 and 12.3.2, it is recommended that the total load on the work platform, including personnel and materials, is not to exceed 250 kg
• The forklift truck operator must hold the appropriate Certificate of Competency, pursuant to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
• The forklift truck is to be operated on a hard level surface during use of the work platform