Industry body raises concerns over Thorough Examination of attachments

Geoff Martin, chair of CFTS, comments: “There seems to be some confusion among not only owners and operators of equipment but also a large number of inspection companies when it comes to testing attachments.

“The first issue is which attachments require a Thorough Examination. The law is quite clear that if lifting attachments are not permanently fitted – and that can include anything from safety cages to bale and barrel clamps – then they must receive a separate Thorough Examination to ensure they are safe and in good working order.

“Which brings us onto the second issue and that is the problem of specificity. Many of those carrying out Thorough Examinations (often referred to as LOLERs) are using a generic checklist when inspecting attachments. That is not best practice and could leave you exposed to prosecution should things go wrong.”

When conducting an examination of any attachment it is vitally important that the documentation includes a full set of checks specific to the attachments(s), regardless of whether it is fitted permanently or temporarily.

Working with leading manufacturers and distributors of attachments, CFTS has created a 33-point checklist that ensures all electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical components are working correctly and safely. This is available through companies that have been accredited through the CFTS process.

Geoff Martin continues: “The third issue is one of timing. Because of the nature of the work and the potential for injuries or component failure, removable attachments generally require more frequent inspections than the forklift, tractor, telehandler or plant to which they are fitted.

“However, my advice to anyone whose lifting equipment uses an attachment would be to eliminate any doubt by visiting the CFTS website and contacting the nearest CFTS-accredited company and check what applies to your individual equipment, site and operations. Their guidance will be expert, free of charge and without any obligations.”

To gauge how often Thorough Examinations are required take this quick CFTS quiz: https://www.thoroughexamination.org/how-often-is-thorough-examination-required

For more information on CFTS or to find your nearest Thorough Examination provider, visit: www.thoroughexamination.org/find-an-accredited-examiner

FLTA, BITA and CFTS are now part of UKMHA. For more information on UKMHA, visit: www.ukmha.org.uk