The Australian Industrial Truck Association (AITA), Australia's peak forklift industry body, has adopted a code of conduct.

AITA president Paul Bennett, of BT Lifttrucks Pty Ltd, said adopting the code was part of a long-term program to lift safety awareness in the forklift industry and among users of materials handling equipment.

"Adoption and observance of the code of conduct will enhance responsibility by all AITA members for safe practice and demonstrate to our customers that the industry is serious about safety," he said.

AITA has worked with occupational health and safety authorities, particularly Worksafe Victoria, in developing safer attitudes and practices. AITA member participation at safety seminars and programs had been strong, Mr Bennett said.

Mr Bennett was re-elected as president at the AITA's annual general meeting. Brian Hoare (Crown Equipment Pty Ltd) was elected deputy president and Mark Fritzen (NACCO Materials Handling Group) continues as chairman of the AITA's engineering committee.