Forklift Engine and Safety Requirements in Singapore: Ensuring Compliance with LTA and MOM updated: Dec 2024

Forklifts are vital for material handling across warehouses, construction sites, and industrial facilities. However, in Singapore, operating forklifts requires adherence to strict regulations set by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). These guidelines ensure forklifts meet emission standards and are used safely as lifting machines. This blog explores the requirements for forklift engines and the use of forklifts as lifting equipment to help businesses remain compliant and efficient.

LTA Engine Requirements for Forklifts

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) enforces emission standards to reduce environmental impact and promote cleaner air quality. Forklift operators must comply with these regulations to ensure legal and environmentally responsible operation.

Key LTA Guidelines

1. Emission Standards

   • Forklifts powered by diesel engines must meet the Euro IV emission standard or its equivalent.

   • Petrol/LPG engines are also subject to strict benchmarks to minimise pollutants like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.

   • Electric forklifts offer a clean alternative with zero emissions, simplifying compliance with LTA requirements.

2. Inspection and Certification

   • Forklifts must undergo an inspection to verify engine compliance with emission standards.

   • Certified forklifts can be registered with LTA for legal operation.

3. Registration Process

   • Submit engine compliance documents, specifications, and inspection results to LTA.

   • Only compliant forklifts can be approved for use.

Failure to comply with LTA regulations can result in fines, operational delays, and restricted forklift use.

MOM Guidelines: Forklifts as Lifting Machines

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) governs the safe use of forklifts as lifting machines. Any forklift used for lifting suspended loads must comply with MOM’s strict requirements to ensure workplace safety.

Key MOM Guidelines

1. Forklift Design and Equipment

   • The forklift must be originally designed and certified as LM.

   • Approved attachments, such as hooks with safety catches, must be used for lifting with LG Cert.

2. Load Capacity

   • A load capacity chart from the manufacturer or supplier must be provided.

   • The forklift’s Safe Working Load (SWL) must not exceed 5 tonnes when used as a lifting machine.

3. Safety Information and Risk Assessment

   • Safety guidelines for operating the forklift and its attachments must be available.

   • Conduct a risk assessment to address additional risks posed by the forklift’s use as a lifting machine.

4. Operator Training

   • Operators must be trained and certified to use forklifts safely.

     
     

Registration of Forklifts and Attachments

Forklifts and their lifting attachments must be registered with MOM as lifting equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards:

1. Forklift Registration:

   • Forklifts used for lifting must be registered as lifting machines.

2. Attachment Registration:

   • Attachments such as clamps, hooks, or jibs are classified as lifting gear and must be separately registered.

Both forklifts and attachments require periodic inspections and maintenance to maintain compliance and safety.

Why Compliance Matters

Adhering to LTA and MOM regulations protects businesses, workers, and the environment.

• For LTA Compliance:

  • Reduce harmful emissions and align with Singapore’s sustainability goals.

  • Avoid fines, delays, and restricted operations.

• For MOM Compliance:

  • Prevent workplace accidents by ensuring equipment meets safety standards.

  • Operate forklifts legally and improve workplace safety.

Conclusion

Forklift operators in Singapore must navigate LTA’s emission standards and MOM’s safety requirements to operate legally and responsibly. Ensuring compliance involves selecting the right forklifts, registering them appropriately, and maintaining safety standards for attachments used as lifting gear.

By following these guidelines, businesses can create safer workplaces, avoid penalties, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Singapore. For more detailed information, refer to MOM’s announcement on forklifts as lifting machines.

Operate safely, comply responsibly, and drive efficiency in your operations.