Important Update: Minimum Age for Lift Truck Training in Ireland Now 18
We’d like to make our customers aware of an important regulatory update that affects anyone booking or undertaking forklift (lift truck) training in Ireland.
Effective immediately, all candidates must now be at least 18 years old to attend lift truck training in Ireland.
THIS DOES NOT AFFECT TRAINING THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE UK
(England, Scotland or Wales – which remains “minimum school leaving age”)
This change follows updated guidance from the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), which is working on a revised Code of Practice expected later this year. The HSA has advised that individuals under the age of 18 should not be trained on materials handling equipment (MHE), in order to better align with the intent of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. The existing Code of Practice is now considered outdated and this new position reflects modern expectations for workplace safety and responsibility.
What This Means for You
If you’re planning or booking lift truck training in Ireland – whether at your premises or at a designated training center – please ensure all candidates are 18 or over. This is vital to ensure full compliance and to avoid any disruption to your training plans.
If you have any questions about this change or how it might affect your upcoming training, feel free to contact us directly. We’re here to help you stay compliant and ensure safe, effective training for all your staff.