CFTS, the body behind the UK’s national scheme for the Thorough Examination of lift trucks, has issued a reminder to truck owners and operators: Thorough Examination is not just for trucks; attachments require inspection too.

Under UK health and safety law, fork lift truck users are legally obliged to ensure that their trucks receive a thorough examination, at least once every 12 months (more frequently in some cases). Attachments – such as platforms, booms, cranes, grabbers, fork extensions, etc. – also require inspection, and failure to comply could lead to prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

When attachments are permanently fixed to the truck, they should be inspected as part of the truck’s thorough examination. However, non-permanent attachments are not included in this, and must be inspected by a competent person at least twice a year.

CFTS Chairman Mike Mathias explains, “Attachments are a crucial part of the lifting mechanism and must be treated accordingly. The sudden failure of a boom, winch, platform, or other attachment could be incredibly dangerous – particularly while carrying a load.

The CFTS Thorough Examination includes an 18-point checklist for attachments alone. This ensures attachments are in good general condition, and that all their components – electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical – are working correctly.

The CFTS website features a specification tool which tells users how often their truck should be examined.

More information from: www.thoroughexamination.org

Photo: CFTS Thorough Examination.