DGUV regulations and principles for work platforms and forklifts – simply explained

What You Need to Know

TheDGUV regulationsform the foundation forSafety, training and operationsof work platforms and forklifts in Germany. They specify who is permitted to operate equipment, how inspections must be conducted, and what obligations companies have regarding risk assessment, training, and maintenance.

What is crucial for practice are theDGUV Rule 100-500(operation of lifting platforms), thePrinciple 308-008(training of operators) and theRegulation 68(Industrial trucks). Anyone who knows these requirements and implements them in their daily work ensuresmore security, fewer failures and legally compliant operation– whether in rental, construction or industry.

Anyone who uses work platforms or forklifts cannot ignore the DGUV ( German Social Accident Insurance). The German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) provides the framework for safe and legally compliant operation with its regulations, rules, and principles.

Sounds dry—but it's incredibly important, because violations can be costly. We'll show you what really applies, which documents are relevant, and what you need to pay attention to in practice.

How the DGUV regulations are structured

The German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) has created an entire system of regulations. It consists of four levels that collectively govern occupational safety and health – from mandatory to recommended.

• Regulations: legally binding, e.g., DGUV Regulation 68 for forklifts
• Rules: explain how regulations are to be implemented in practice
• Principles: define requirements for training, testing and operation
• Information: provide practical tips and checklists for everyday life

DGUV rules for mobile elevating work platforms

DGUV Rule 100-500 Chapter 2.10 – Operation of lifting platforms

This rule forms the basis for the safe use of aerial work platforms. It specifies who is permitted to operate them, how inspections are conducted, and when safety equipment is required.

• Only persons aged 18 and over with proven qualifications and written authorization
• Daily visual and functional inspection before each use
• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment against falls from a height) in the work basket is mandatory
• Wind, inclination and ground must be taken into account – otherwise there is a risk of tipping over

DGUV Principle 308-008 – Training and commissioning of operators

This regulation precisely regulates who can be considered a platform operator and what qualifications are required. Without this certification, no one is allowed to operate a work platform.

• Theory and practice with final exam (driving license required)
• Additional training for special designs such as truck-mounted or articulated telescopic platforms
• Annual company training
• Requirement: at least 18 years old, physically and mentally fit (G25/FSÜ recommendation)

DGUV Information 208-019 – Safe handling of mobile elevating work platforms

This DGUV information is the ultimate practical document. It explains how to use platforms safely, which hazards occur frequently, and how to prevent them.

• Analysis of typical accident causes (e.g. tipping over or crushing hazard)
• Sample checklists for visual inspection, operational planning and maintenance
• Reference to EN 280 – the technical standard for mobile elevating work platforms

DGUV Principle 308-002 – Testing of lifting platforms

This concerns the testing obligations of manufacturers and operators.

• Inspection before first commissioning by experts
• At least annual re-examination
• Additional extraordinary inspection after damage or modifications

DGUV rules for forklifts and industrial trucks

DGUV Regulation 68 – Industrial trucks

The most important regulation for forklifts. It applies to all industrial trucks with a drive system—whether electric, diesel, or gas—and regulates safe operation.

• Drivers may only be employed with a certificate of competence (forklift license)
• Daily functional check by the driver
• Regular inspection by a qualified person
• Specifications for routes, traffic areas and load bearing

DGUV Principle 308-001 – Training and commissioning of forklift drivers

This principle is the benchmark for every forklift training course in Germany. Without it, no valid forklift license is issued.

• Theoretical and practical training with exam
• Additional training for special equipment or attachments
• Annual training in the company

DGUV Information 208-004 – Forklift trucks

This practical guide for the safe handling of forklifts covers all topics from construction and maintenance to handling.

• Checklists for daily testing
• Tips for safe driving, load handling and cornering
• Information on operating instructions and UVV testing

DGUV Information 208-031 – Working platforms on industrial trucks

This rule applies when a forklift truck exceptionally lifts a work platform. This is only permitted within narrow limits – and only with an approved platform.

• Only permitted if no other work equipment is suitable
• Short operating time, full CE marking
• Form-fitting fastening with anti-loosening device
• Fence at least 1.10 m

Overarching regulations

DGUV Regulation 1 – Principles of prevention

This regulation applies to all companies. It regulates the basic obligations of employers and employees regarding occupational health and safety.

• Risk assessment and regular training
• Provision of suitable work equipment
• Use of only qualified persons
• Wearing personal protective equipment

Industrial Safety Ordinance (BetrSichV)

The governmental basis on which many DGUV regulations are based. It obliges operators to conduct risk assessments, tests, and documentation.

Technical Rules for Operational Safety (TRBS)

TRBS specify the BetrSichV. Particularly relevant:

• TRBS 2121-2: Hazards when using ladders
• TRBS 2121-4: Exceptional lifting of persons with work equipment

Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC

European basis for the design and safety of machinery. Every mobile elevating work platform or forklift truck bearing the CE mark is subject to this directive.

Personal protective equipment (PPE/PPEgA)

When is PPE mandatory?

PPE against falls from a height is mandatory for platforms with booms – i.e. truck-mounted, articulated or telescopic platforms – and recommended for scissor lifts.

• Consisting of a full body harness and lanyard (max. 1.8 m)
• Anchor points in the work basket are mandatory
• Regular inspection by qualified persons

Occupational medical suitability

Anyone who operates platforms or forklifts should undergo regular medical examinations (formerly G25 examination, now DGUV Recommendation E FSÜ).

• Testing of vision, hearing and reaction ability
• Recommended intervals: every 3–4 years, from 40 years every 2–3 years

Examinations and qualifications

Qualified persons and experts

Qualified personnel regularly inspect the work equipment. Experts are called in for extraordinary inspections or after accidents.

Typical inspection periods

Special devices and applications

Telehandler

According to DGUV Principle 308-009, qualification is carried out in several stages, depending on the structure and application. Additional qualification is mandatory, especially for rotating superstructures or use as a platform.

Ladders and steps

According to DGUV Information 208-016, ladders may only be used for low-risk and short-term work. For longer work periods, a platform or scaffold must be used.

Current developments

New DGUV recommendations

Previous principles such as the G25 review were converted into recommendations (E FSÜ) in 2022. The content remains, but the legal pressure is less, placing greater responsibility on the employer.

Revised standards

• DIN EN 280-1:2022 – new definitions, modified load measurement, more safety tests
• TRBS 2121-4:2019 – stricter rules for exceptional lifting with forklifts

Conclusion

DGUV regulations aren't paperwork, they're life insurance. They protect drivers, operators, and businesses alike. Adhering to the rules not only avoids accidents, but also downtime and hassle with authorities. At BIBERGER , we ensure that all equipment is inspected, documented, and ready for use during every rental – exactly as required by the DGUV. This isn't a matter of duty; it's safety in practice.

About the author

Benjamin Biberger

Managing Director

Benjamin is the founder and managing director of BIBERGER Arbeitsbühnen & Forklifts.

He is responsible for thecommercial and administrative areasof the company and, together with his team, ensures theOptimization of operational processesand theoptimal customer supportin their projects.

Through his many years of experience in the areas of organization andProject managementIt provides a stable foundation – in its own daily business, in sustainableFurther development of processesas well as in theCollaboration with partners and customers.