Local service from CFTS

Created in 2004 by the FLTA and BITA (in consultation with the HSE), CFTS provides national, consistent standards for lift truck inspections to ensure that equipment aligns with LOLER and PUWER requirements for safety and suitability. All CFTS members abide by a strict code of practice, with every inspection conducted by a fully trained and experienced engineer. 

Only those inspection providers accredited to CFTS can use the scheme’s distinctive certification marque, which can be found on paperwork and stickers affixed to the equipment. The marque shows truck owners and operators that their equipment has been checked in accordance with all necessary legislation, ensuring compliance with the law.

A growing network

The CFTS member network includes over 600 accredited depots across the length and breadth of the UK. The number is continuously growing as more companies expand their services, with CFTS able to provide training through a dedicated centre in Swindon or via on-site visits around the country.

One of the newest CFTS members, Northern Marine Services, can be found just down the road from John o’ Groats at the very top of Scotland.

The company’s engineers recently received their on-site Thorough Examination training by a CFTS technical manager.

Alasdair Noble, operations manager at Northern Marine Services says: “CFTS accreditation shows that we are up to speed on all the latest rules and regulations. It allows us to provide all equipment inspections with complete traceability. Our customers can be confident that we have met certain criteria for those inspections, and that our engineers have been trained to a high standard.”

Also based in Scotland is Tayside LOLER Inspection, another recently accredited CFTS member.

Alex Thain, director at Tayside LOLER Inspection, says: “I cover the whole of Scotland and inspect everything from forklifts to telehandlers and everything in between. I have 30 years of experience with inspections in different industries, but CFTS accreditation allows me to back that up and build on my knowledge. Equipment and legislation changes over time, so it’s good to keep on top of procedures. The Thorough Examination training I received was very in depth, and CFTS provides good support whenever it’s needed.”

CFTS chair Geoff Martin adds: "CFTS accreditation is proof that an inspection provider is committed to delivering the highest standards regarding Thorough Examinations. By expanding out network to more locations, we can ensure that equipment owners across the country have greater access to truly thorough inspections conducted by reliable, accredited engineers, ensuring peace of mind when it comes to truck safety and legal compliance."

To search for a local Thorough Examination provider, visit: www.thoroughexamination.org/find-an-accredited-examiner