It’s fair to say that most managers responsible for materials handling operations are aware of the need for routine inspections (thorough examinations) to ensure their equipment is safe to operate and fit for purpose.
But it is important to make sure that these inspections are done to the right level, according to CFTS. That even includes inspecting the operator’s seat.
According to chairman Geoff Martin, “[that] may sound trivial but it’s a really good indicator of the quality and thoroughness of the inspection… and could make the difference between life and death in the case of a tipping accident.
“Along with the Machinery Directive guidelines, PUWER also covers seat belts/restraints to keep the operator safety seated, as well as operator presence devices (seat switches) that ensure the great majority of forklifts cannot be driven unless the operator is in position.
“These are important, because one of the primary purposes of the legislation is to ensure the operator remains in place during a tip-over incident.”
Tipping accidents are a significant cause of fatality among forklift operators. In many cases, the operator will try to leap clear of the falling truck only to be ‘mousetrapped’ between the overhead guard and the ground, suffering massive trauma to the head or upper body.
“That’s why checking the seat restraint and the safety interlock/operator presence device is so important,” adds Martin. “It is also a reason why a key aspect of a CFTS-accredited thorough examination (LOLER and PUWER) is to ensure the seat mountings are secure and all seat belts and safety interlocks fitted to the truck control system are functioning correctly.
He also points out that there are special circumstances where an extra thorough examination is legally required.
Martin explains: “Most employers know that material handling equipment must be inspected regularly by a competent person, typically once or twice a year depending on the application. However, there are other events that may necessitate an additional thorough examination. Described in LOLER as ‘exceptional circumstances,’ they are events or actions that could compromise the safety of the equipment. These could include overload, impact, damage or failure, being out of use for long periods, and/or major changes, which are likely to affect the equipment’s integrity (for example, modifications, or replacement/repair of critical parts).
“My advice would be that if you are in any doubt about anything to do with thorough examinations, including the frequency or the comprehensiveness of the inspection, then talk to your local provider. CFTS has more than 750 accredited depots in the UK, so help is close at hand.”
BOX: CFTS GUIDE TO COUNTERBALANCE FLT INSPECTION
CFTS offers, via www.is.gd/uyubom, interactive guides to inspection of mobile plant including telehandlers, rough terrain FLTs, Man-up FLTs, reach stackers, demountables, stackers and tractors. Here is an example.
LOLER
Mast – full range of extension and movement Chain- measured in at least three places. Greater than 3% wear forces a replacement Load backrest Tilt mechanism, including hydraulics Permanently-fitted attachments and side shifts Forks – Among other factors, for wear according to ISO 5057 Carriage Hydraulic cylinder, reservoir, hoses and pipes, as well as filters Rating plate Controls, cables and linkages
PUWER
Steering Overhead guard/cab Safety systems, including visual and audible alarms, capacity plates and safety interlocks Seat restraint for secure mounting Seat mounting Chassis Traction system, including prime mover and transmission Wheels and tyres Counterweight