Buyers are urged to check used machinery before buying

The body behind a UK national standard for the Thorough Examination of forklifts is urging companies to make sure that they see a valid Thorough Examination Report for every machine they bring on site.

"Any piece of materials handling equipment must be fit for purpose and not pose a risk to health and safety," says Geoff Martin, chairman of CFTS. "A Thorough Examination Report will show you that the truck has been assessed and whether there are any faults on it. Without the report, you have no assurance of the truck's condition."

It is a legal requirement that forklifts receive a Thorough Examination at least once every 12 months in the UK. Employers have a responsibility to ensure a truck has valid documentation when taking possession under any kind of lease, hire or loan agreement.

"Insisting on checking the Thorough Examination Report when you get a truck is a sensible thing to do as it gives you peace of mind," says Martin. "More importantly, you are fulfilling your legal obligation to your employees to provide safe equipment. If you are investigated by the HSE and are deemed to be acting negligently, then you could personally face a significant fine or even prison; and will shoulder the responsibility and guilt if one of your staff is injured."