An ignition control system for the internal combustion engine of a material handling implement is disclosed for selectively actuating each of a plurality of control switches, wherein one of the said switches controls an associated electrical device. An ignition switch having a plurality of selectable positions arranged in a predetermined sequence directs a master control signal to the control switches. The master control signal is directed to the control switch associated with the electrical control device only upon completion of movement of the ignition switch through the predetermined sequence of positions. Once the predetermined sequence has been effected, the master control signal is continuously directed to the control device for providing actuation thereof, until the ignition switch is moved to an off position.