Key Changes (effective 19th January 2026)
The updated ABA Workplace Transport Groupings are now in force. These revisions aim to improve clarity, reflect modern equipment usage, and ensure more consistent training and certification across workplace transport.
This summary outlines the key changes and required actions.
What’s Changed
- 1. New / Reclassified Categories
- LLOP (rising cab) Previously A2 → now reclassified as E0
- Rider-operated reach trucks Previously
- D2 (over 8m)
- D3 (stand-on)
- Now: All grouped under D1 (no height restriction)
- Control type (stand-on or seated) must be recorded on course paperwork and certification
- Tow tractors
- H3 category removed
- 2. Simplified Categories
- J Category
- J1 and J8 remain unchanged
- J2, J4, J6 Removed
- Removal of the 9m rule
- 3. New Categories Introduced
- M4 – Pedestrian multi-directional trucks
- Includes:
- Pallet Stacker version
- Reach Stacker version
- Instructor requirements:
- A5 + multi-directional – pallet stacker
- or
- A7 + multi-directional – reach stacker
- SP1 – Vertical stock prickers
- Covers machine like Crown Wave-type
- Previously referenced as “3a”
- 4. Transitional Note
Some ITSSAR course materials may still reference old categories while updates are being rolled out
Impact on Existing Certificates
- Existing certificates remain valid
- Categorisation can be validated using the machine make/model originally used
- Still suitable for refresher training
- Employers remain responsible for ensuring:
- Basic
- Job-specific
- Familiarisation
- Consider conversion training where equipment differs significantly
What You Need to Do
- Update internal systems with new category codes
- Brief instructors and admin teams
- Reinforce the 3 stages of training:
- Basic
- Job-specific
- Familiarisation
- Consider conversion training where equipment differs significantly
What ITSSAR have and will be doing to support these changes
ITSSAR is supporting the transition through:
- Updated ID cards via re-registration
- Changes to the Trained Operator Passport Scheme (TOPS)
- Revised course syllabuses (available via TOPS for TP’s) for category 1 instructors please email office@itssar.org.uk with a copy of the previous version)
- New Grouping list aligned with the ABA
- Updated training hours guidance
- New certificate templates and guidance notes