The newly expanded CFTS Thorough Examination includes separate inspections on the security of attachment mounts, winch and chain brake tests, chain and sling wear checks, damage inspections, checks on wear plates and warning signs, as well as an entirely new checklist covering platforms, safety cages and tail lifts, where present.

Mike Mathias, chair of CFTS explains: “With so many varieties of attachments available, we recognise the importance of a truly comprehensive Thorough Examination standard which inspects the entire truck. 

“For this reason, we have worked closely with the UK’s leading attachment manufacturers and suppliers to develop tough new tests specifically for these vital pieces of equipment. It’s part of our drive for continuous improvement of CFTS Thorough Examinations.” 

UK law: permanent vs temporary attachments

Mathias continues: “In terms of UK health and safety law, fork lift truck users are legally obliged to perform Thorough Examinations on their lift trucks at least once every 12 months – more frequently in some cases.

“When attachments are permanently fixed to the truck, they should be inspected as part of this same Thorough Examination. 

“However, what many may not realise is that non-permanent attachments – such as fork extensions – are not included as part of this inspection. Instead, they must undergo a Thorough Examination by a competent person at least twice a year. By not complying with this legal requirement, staff, stock and businesses can be at serious risk.”

More frequent checks are required on these non-permanent attachments, such as extensions, platforms, booms, cranes and grabbers, as they’re more vulnerable and prone to mechanical stresses than integral parts of the truck.  

While the previous CFTS Thorough Examination for attachments comprised an 18-point checklist, the revised standard now includes 34 separate attachment checks. These cover different types of attachments, components, mountings, platforms, safety cages and tail lifts.

The robust checklist has been designed to ensure that attachments and relevant components, such as electronics, hydraulics, and mechanical, are in good working order – ensuring that trucks operate safely and legally. 

Developed by the industry for the industry

CFTS was established by the leading organisations in the fork lift truck industry – the British Industrial Truck Association and the Fork Lift Truck Association – working in conjunction with the HSE. 

The CFTS national standard was developed for compliance and consistency. So no matter where a lift truck user is in the UK, precisely the same quality and depth of inspection can be expected. For employers, this ensures they can be confident that their trucks are working safely and within the law, regardless of what attachments or extensions are fitted and, with more than 450 accredited UK companies, CFTS Thorough Examinations are available throughout the UK.