1 April 2020

Despite the strict measures that the government has put in place to limit the spread of Covid-19, the HSE has not relaxed the regulations surrounding Thorough Examinations so we want to clarify exactly what that means for you. Whoever carries out your inspections, we want to make as many people aware of this legislation as possible and keep everyone safe in every way we can - we're all in this together.

MY EQUIPMENT DOES NOT HOLD A THOROUGH EXAMINATION CERTIFICATE – IS THAT LEGAL?

NO. If you are operating lifting equipment it must have a valid certificate.

COULD I BE PROSECUTED UNDER HSE LAW IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT?

YES.

THE CURRENT CERTIFICATE IS ABOUT TO EXPIRE, CAN I ARRANGE FOR A THOROUGH EXAMINATION WITH THE LOCKDOWN IN PLACE?

YES. Our engineers are classed as key workers and have been provided with the paperwork to support this service.

THE THOROUGH EXAMINATION HAS EXPIRED BUT I DON’T NEED TO USE MY EQUIPMENT AT THE MOMENT, WHAT SHOULD I DO?

You need to park the equipment, remove the keys and provide clear signage that identifies that the machine is not to be used under any circumstances – make the best use of your smart phone and take a photograph of the hour meter and its suspended location.

I CAN’T REMEMBER WHEN MY CURRENT CERTIFICATE EXPIRES, HOW DO I FIND OUT?

Your Thorough Examinations may be carried out by us, your insurance company or another body. If it’s HFT we will get in touch to remind you in plenty of time and will book an engineer visit if required.

WAIT – WHAT IS A THOROUGH EXAMINATION AGAIN?

A Thorough Examination is a systematic and detailed examination of equipment and safety-critical parts carried out at specific intervals by a competent person and is a mandatory requirement under British law. Our engineers are CFTS accredited and hold current qualifications.

I NEED TO BOOK A THOROUGH EXAMINATION, WHAT DO I DO NOW?

Please call 01432 277180 to speak to our team or email service@hftforklifts.com

WHATEVER YOUR SITUATION REGARDING THOROUGH EXAMINATIONS, PLEASE STAY SAFE.