It is vital that managers and supervisors who are responsible for the safety and lawful use of industrial equipment understand their legal obligations, explains CFTS technical manager Shaun Prendergast.
While legislation demands Thorough Examination for lifting equipment at routine intervals (at least once every 12 months), the laws governing it leave some room for interpretation.
Compliance has never been so tough for managers and supervisors, thanks to the introduction of Fee for Intervention (FFI), the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act, and the updated the Approved Code of Practice (L117). With non-compliance costs higher than ever before, it’s vital that those most at risk are aware and informed.
Consistently comprehensive
Without a quality-controlled procedure for Thorough Examination, such as that which is employed by CFTS-accredited companies, there are no guarantees that your equipment will undergo the same scope of inspection every time.
From time to time, we hear stories that these vital and complex safety checks are completed in as little as 15 minutes. Typically, it should take more than 45 minutes for a 1.5 tonne three-wheel electric.
As a truck’s complexity increases, so does its inspection. A conventional telehandler, for example, might take three hours to inspect properly.
One reason why a CFTS Thorough Examination takes longer is that examiners must follow a qualitycontrolled process which requires performing accurate physical examinations on key components.
Your lift truck’s chains, for example, are a vital component of the lifting mechanism. That’s why every CFTS examiner is required to use an accurate self-calibrating chain gauge which precisely judges wear and tear… and these results can be replicated.
CFTS examiners also carry equipment essential for inspecting other parts of the truck, such as a jack for checking the brakes and steering, and A-frame ladders or similar to inspect chain wear at the top of the mast where it passes over the rollers – arguably the most crucial area for wear and faults.
Competence you can count on…
CFTS examiners are experienced, specialist lift truck engineers, who possess the in-depth knowledge to identify and categorise defects clearly.
This ensures your trucks are safer, while making you aware of actions needed to rectify any issues.
Their training includes a demanding Thorough Examination course, which is refreshed once every five years. In addition, they must meet CFTS’ nationally agreed criteria.
Likewise, high levels of training and experience are expected and required of their managers – ensuring that businesses, like yours, choosing CFTS for their Thorough Examination, receive the highest quality service.
Peace of mind A poor choice of Thorough Examination provider could result in a heavy fine, a Health and Safety Executive FFI (Fee for Intervention), or even a horrific accident and prosecution under the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act. It certainly isn’t something that can be rushed or compromised.
CFTS
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