Appointed to the board

CFTS Chairman Mike Mathias, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Mike to the Board. With his wealth of knowledge and expertise, gained through 20 years of experience of the materials handling industry, he will be a strong addition to our team.” 

Knowles joined Crown in February 1996 as a trainee salesperson. Working his way through the ranks, he was appointed Crown UK operations director in 2012. In his current role, Knowles oversees all of the manufacturer’s UK customer service, parts and rental activities.

CFTS was established more than a decade ago by BITA (British Industrial Truck Association) in collaboration with the FLTA (Fork Lift Truck Association). 

“Sitting on the CFTS Board is a real privilege,” says Knowles. “CFTS plays a pivotal role in the materials handling industry. It sets out the standards for Thorough Examination and is instrumental in ensuring that lift trucks are safe to operate."  

While LOLER-only Thorough Examinations may focus solely on a truck’s lifting parts, CFTS-accredited Thorough Examinations have been developed to meet HSE guidelines by incorporating the high standards set out by both LOLER 98 and PUWER 98 – ensuring the legal compliance and safety of the whole vehicle.