UK’s accrediting body for Thorough Examinations, the CFTS (Consolidated Fork Truck Services), has issued a reminder that additional Thorough Examinations are sometimes required in order to fully comply with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).

CFTS director Rob Fisher says while most companies now understand the requirement for regular safety inspections under the legislation, he believes “relatively few” are aware of the “exceptional circumstances” which may require an additional inspection.

These circumstances may include equipment being out of service for long periods, major changes which could affect the equipment’s integrity, modifications or repairs to critical parts, overload, impact, damage or failure.

“The little-known rule adds further uncertainty around the often-misunderstood inspection requirements where handling equipment comes under both LOLER and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) rules,” CFTS states. 

“Research by CFTS shows that managers usually expect a whole machine to be inspected, when in practice some LOLER inspections focus on lifting parts only.”

Fisher adds that the CFTS was formed to bring clarity around what the requirements of Thorough Examinations are and reminded industry participants that they are “vital to workplace safety”.

“If you are in any doubt at all about your inspection schedule, or what should be included, please talk to your local CFTS member,” Fisher continues. “We have more than 800 accredited members all around the UK, so help is never far away.”