At the recent National Fork Lift Safety Conference, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed there are around 1,300 serious fork lift accidents each year – 50% more than HGVs.

Although in the UK, fork lift trucks are not subject to an annual MOT as HGVs are, they do require a Thorough Examination under both LOLER (The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) regulations, so the importance of carrying out this examination to the highest standard is critical to the industry and all those working in it.

Consolidated Fork Truck Services (CFTS), the body that sets the fork lift truck industry’s standard for Thorough Examination, believes this lack of clarity surrounding how often lift truck examinations are carried out and documented can leave managers confused – potentially placing employees at risk.

CFTS Chairman Geoff Martin said, “Every logistics or transport manager worth their salt knows exactly how their HGVs and PSVs are inspected and maintained. But the truth is, your lift truck is far more likely to be involved in a lifechanging accident – and to have its inspection regime questioned by the HSE.”

Geoff continued, “Ironically, satisfying your fork lift Thorough Examination duties is actually far easier than for HGV inspections. Whereas HGVs need to undergo an annual MOT and formal programme of PUWER safety checks, the CFTS Thorough Examination for lift trucks covers LOLER and PUWER in one quality-assured process.”

CFTS has established a network of more than 400 accredited companies qualified to carry out Thorough Examinations for fork lift operators in the UK.

Photo:  Thorough Examination in progress