Get repairs done while the inspection is undertaken

Thorough Examinations provider CFTS is advising fleet operators to consider getting faults repaired at the time of inspection.

CFTS points out that if faults are detected during the required regular inspection, businesses can sometimes be left with idle equipment while they wait for repairs.

"Many inspection providers will do cursory checks and then leave the owner with a list of things to fix and a truck that is out of action," says Geoff Martin, CFTS chairman.

"Our experienced engineers have the knowledge and capabilities to provide a service on the truck following an inspection, helping the owner get back up and running as soon as possible.

"This will be particularly important at the moment, when companies may have equipment that has been stood down for prolonged periods during the latest lockdown. The HSE has reiterated that this equipment must have a Thorough Examination before it is put back into service, to check that parts haven't deteriorated over recent months."

A CFTS Thorough Examination includes inspection of the lifting parts of the truck in accordance with LOLER, while non-lifting parts, such as brakes and steering, are evaluated in alignment with PUWER. The engineer will also conduct a 34-point inspection of forklift attachments.

CFTS-accredited companies are obliged under a stringent procedural code to provide a Report of Thorough Examination complying fully with LOLER and PUWER, a checklist specifying what has been inspected and recording any comments made, a certificate to keep with the truck's documents, and a sticker (affixed to the truck) to show the day, month and year when the next Thorough Examination is due.

"A CFTS-accredited engineer can provide much more support than just checking a truck," Martin adds. "They can provide recommendations on examination intervals based on the truck, its usage and the environment. There are hundreds of providers around the UK, so it's easy to find a local engineer."

Consolidated Fork Truck Services (CFTS) was created by the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) and the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA), in consultation with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).