Training

Thorough Examinations can only be undertaken by a Competent Person. In order to offer customers the best quality equipment inspections, Competent Persons must be trained to the highest standard. These engineer courses are designed to meet the needs of the industry.

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of UKMHA (UK Material Handling Association), CFTS provides accreditation to demonstrate competence. CFTS Thorough Examination training has been specially designed by UKMHA to ensure professional standards are maintained and to offer MHE operators complete peace of mind.

Regional training courses

To book a place on one of these courses please log in to the CFTS Members’ Area here and visit the Member Hub.

For more information please email training@thoroughexamination.org or call 01344 623 800

Please Note: To comply with the CFTS Quality Assurance Procedural Code, only named personnel on the CFTS national database are authorised to carry out thorough examination under the CFTS scheme, and they must have a minimum of five years of experience as a service engineer in a relevant sector. This can include appropriate apprentice training. (Some experience from related trades may be acceptable, but this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.)

On-Site Training Dates 2024
Glasgow, G53 7RQ - 30th & 31st May 2024
Hereford, HR2 6LA - 18th & 19th June 2024
Exeter, EX5 1FG - 6th, 7th & 8th August 2024
Kent, ME5 8RZ - 17th, 18th & 19th September 2024
Sheffield, S25 3QS - 8th, 9th & 10th October 2024
Grimsby, DN31 2TB - 22nd, 23rd & 24th October 2024
Glasgow, G53 7RQ - 5th, 6th & 7th November 2024

Training at SMB College

CFTS Training courses are also available via a central training provider: SMB College.

Held at SMB College, Stephenson Campus, Coalville, the courses are delivered by highly trained professionals and offer opportunities to work with a wide range of materials handling equipment. These engineer courses are designed to meet the needs of the industry.

To book please visit the UKMHA website.

Please contact the CFTS office to receive your discount code before booking.

Upcoming SMB College dates:

Thorough Examination New Engineer

Thorough Examination Revalidation


Three main CFTS courses are available:

Thorough Examination New Engineer

This highly practical course for experienced* engineers concentrates on the inspection of chains and forks, current legislation, documentation and the responsibilities of a competent person.

Subjects covered include:

  • The engineer's role
  • Inspection criteria for lift chains and fork arms
  • Organisation of Thorough Examinations and the examiner's role
  • Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
  • Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)
  • Guidance on how to conduct Thorough Examinations

Upon completion, candidates are recorded on a central CFTS national database.

Valid for five years.

*The course is only open to engineers who can demonstrate their ability to inspect the automotive, electrical and hydraulic components of work equipment.

Duration: One day

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Thorough Examination Revalidation

Exclusively for engineers who have previously completed our Thorough Examination course, this training brings engineers up to date with current legislation and practices and reaffirms their inspection skills.

Successful candidates will be registered for a further five years.

Duration: One day

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Thorough Examination Manager

Our Thorough Examination Manager course is essential for those seeking accreditation to CFTS, so they may carry out Thorough Examinations which comply with both LOLER 98 and PUWER 98.

Delegates will be given a detailed understanding of the CFTS Quality Assurance Procedural Code. Importantly, this course conforms to the CFTS accreditation rules and meets the specific needs of Thorough Examination managers and their deputies. In addition, it will enhance the understanding of those managers overseeing CFTS activities.

Duration: One day

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