Geoff Martin

To support companies coming out of lockdown and resuming materials handling operations, Thorough Examination advisor CFTS is issuing a 'Practical 3-Point Plan' to ensure equipment is safe and fit for purpose.

CFTS advises that it is the duty holder's responsibility to check that a truck has a valid certificate and report of Thorough Examination, as required under LOLER. If the report expired during lockdown, an inspection must be arranged before the truck is used again.

Fleet operators should check the nature of the Thorough Examination undertaken by the provider, as some inspections cover only the lifting parts of the truck (under LOLER).

It is important to note that a truck owner is not required to use the inspection provider specified by their insurance company. They are free to employ a CFTS-accredited examiner, who is sure to provide an in-depth inspection that meets LOLER and PUWER requirements.

If a piece of equipment has been stood down for several weeks, CFTS says it must be commissioned and tested as specified in the operator's manual. The vehicle may require a service as well as a Thorough Examination, both of which can be completed by a CFTS-accredited engineer.

The truck must also be thoroughly cleaned.

Summing up, CFTS chairman Geoff Martin says: "Throughout the crisis, CFTS examiners have been strictly following guidance outlined by the government and the HSE, along with that of the FLTA and BITA, to ensure that services remain available at all times.

"Many companies are facing new and exceptional circumstances, especially where production has been compromised for any length of time. Most have never needed to reintroduce materials handling equipment, so as the UK's national accrediting body for providers of Thorough Examinations, we felt it important to provide clear-cut guidance to help get British businesses back up and running."