Meat firm fined for FLT thorough examination failure 04 December 2014

Following the prosecution of a north London meat company for failing to carry out inspections, CFTS (the national body for the thorough examination of forklift trucks) chairman Mike Mathias is warning that thousands of trucks may be operating illegally.

The court heard that, on asking to see the vehicle examination records for MIB United Meat's (Enfield, Middlesex) 2.5-tonne counterbalance forklift truck, an HSE inspector received a document via email which proved to be a fraud.

HSE found that the forklift truck had not been examined – as required by safety rules for lifting equipment – since being purchased in August 2011.

A specialist mechanical inspector from HSE, who examined the forklift in April 2013, found more than 40 faults, including some that could have endangered its operator.

MIB was fined £18,000 and ordered to pay £2,314 in costs.

However, Mathias says this infringement could be the tip of an iceberg – with well over 300,000 masted forklift trucks believed to be in operation across the UK.

"Although shocking, this case is not as exceptional as it should be. There are many truck operators who are unaware of their responsibilities," states Mathias.

"Just like a car's MOT, every fork truck needs a thorough examination at least every 12 months – and it could be more frequently depending on the type of truck and the individual application.

"I would urge anyone unsure of their position to visit the CFTS website where they can find out which parts of the forklift truck should be inspected and how often a thorough examination is necessary."

Brian Tinham

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.