A stream of queries from forklift users looking for guidance on using working platforms has prompted a public statement from Chas Day, technical manager of Consolidated Fork Truck Services (CFTS), the body responsible for developing and administering the UK forklift industry's national accreditation scheme for Thorough Examination.

"Forklifts are for lifting materials, not people. Working platforms or man-up cages allow personnel to work at height. Despite their simple design and deployment, it's crucial to remember that working at height is a high-risk activity," Day warns.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, about 58 workers in the UK suffer major injuries after falling from heights on a forklift each year. In 2008/09, over 4,000 employees had a major injury as a result of a fall from height.

The laws governing forklift use in the UK state that any machine over 12 months old must hold a current report of Thorough Examination. LOLER Regulation 9 sets out that lifting equipment used for the lifting of people, including forklifts and working platforms, must be thoroughly examined by a competent person at least once every six months.

"Vigilance during inspections is paramount," says Day. "From the truck's data plate to its safety harness, a competent person should thoroughly inspect your working platform to ensure compliance with the law."

He adds that the onus is on the user to choose and maintain appropriate equipment to carry out operations safely. "Importantly, we are concerned with the Thorough Examination of the forklift and working platform combination as well as the individual attachment."

Companies accredited to the CFTS Thorough Examination scheme benefit from the trade body's expert technical and legislative advice on the complex issues affecting the use of integrated and non-integrated working platforms. LOLER, PUWER, the EU Machinery Directive and the Health and Safety at Work Act each include regulations on the use of the equipment.

Developed in co-operation with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), CFTS Thorough Examinations have been specifically designed to address the special needs of forklifts.

The CFTS Thorough Examination scheme was established through collaboration between the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) and the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA), the two leading bodies in the forklift industry.

To check if the company that carries out your Thorough Examinations is accredited to CFTS, go to the website.