Overview
ISO 21262:2020 - Industrial trucks - Safety rules for application, operation and maintenance defines safety requirements for the safe use of industrial trucks throughout their lifecycle. The standard covers selection, operation, maintenance, transport, towing, assembly and storage of a wide range of trucks (see scope). It explicitly includes automated functions and driverless variants, and applies to trucks powered by battery, diesel, gasoline or gas (LPG, CNG, LNG).
Keywords: ISO 21262, industrial trucks, safety rules, operation, maintenance, driverless trucks, automated functions.
Key topics and technical requirements
ISO 21262 organizes practical safety rules and responsibilities for users and operators. Major technical topics include:
- Scope and truck types - counterbalance lift trucks, reach trucks, straddle trucks, pallet-stacking, order-pickers, bidirectional/multidirectional, container handlers, articulated and variable‑reach trucks, pallet trucks, tractors (drawbar up to 20 000 N), burden/personnel carriers and more.
- General requirements - selection of appropriate truck/equipment, adherence to manufacturer’s instructions, marking and capacity plates, use in hazardous or special areas (e.g., cold storage, explosive atmospheres).
- Operator competency and training - defined roles for operator, trainer and competent person; training programs and authorization.
- Operating conditions and pre-shift checks - travel surface, lighting, aisles, obstructions and pre-shift inspection procedures.
- Travel and load-handling rules - driving in narrow aisles, slopes, lift/elevator use, container operations; safe picking up, depositing and stacking of loads; handling suspended or liquid loads.
- Parking, towing, transport and storage - safe parking practices, towing and transport requirements, assembly and storage conditions.
- Truck types and special requirements - additional clauses for electric batteries (including lithium ion), internal combustion trucks, towing tractors, pedestrian-controlled trucks, trucks for potentially explosive areas and trucks with elevating operator positions.
- Attachments, modification and maintenance - safe use of attachments, rules for truck modification and maintenance obligations; removal from service when safety is compromised.
Practical applications and who uses ISO 21262
This standard is essential for:
- Safety managers, facility operators and fleet owners who must set procedures and policies for truck use.
- Operators and trainers developing competency and training programs.
- Maintenance teams and service providers establishing inspection, repair and modification practices.
- Manufacturers and integrators of automated/driverless truck systems for operational guidance.
- Occupational health & safety professionals and auditors verifying compliance.
ISO 21262 helps reduce risk, improve workplace safety and ensure consistent, auditable practices for industrial truck application, operation and maintenance.
Related standards
For implementation details and clause-level requirements, consult the full ISO 21262:2020 publication.