CFTS has reminded businesses about the importance of including lifting attachments in LOLER Thorough Examinations – after learning equipment had been hidden from CFTS Accredited examiners. 

Tens of thousands of attachments like side shifts, access platforms, and bale grabs are used with lift trucks, tractors, and telehandlers across the UK.  

Crucially, the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 require these implements to be inspected by a competent person like other lifting machinery – even if they’re only used temporarily. 

As the body established by the UKMHA to oversee the industry’s own Thorough Examination standard, CFTS is concerned that misunderstandings over these rules could leave companies at risk of prosecution, and worse. 

Misunderstandings over LOLER rules 

CFTS Director Rob Fisher explains: “Ultimately, it’s the responsibility of the duty holder to ensure all the equipment on their site is safe to use. That includes permanent attachments like rotator arms, as well as temporary ones like a safety cage. 

“Worryingly, we’ve learned of cases where these attachments have been hidden while a thorough examination is taking place. That’s dangerous, counterproductive, and leaves businesses exposed to unnecessary risk and prosecution if an accident were to happen. With the HSE’s 94% conviction rate, it’s really not worth it.” 

Dangerous and counterproductive 

The UKMHA estimates that at least 22 different kinds of lifting attachments are commonly used across the UK. CFTS engineers carry documented Thorough Examination processes for each of them.  

Common tests include assessing the security of attachment mounts, testing winch and chain brakes and chain and sling wear, inspecting general damage, and checking wear on plates and warning signs. 

However, there is a distinction when it comes to fixed attachments. Under UKMHA guidelines, any attachment that is permanently fitted to the lifting equipment should follow the same inspection frequency as the equipment itself. Non-permanent attachments must be inspected separately, at least twice a year.  

To be a permanent fixed attachment, it must be hard fixed to the truck (bolted on). However, a removable attachment will have quick release hydraulics and mountings.  

Confusion over permanent and temporary attachments 

Rob Fisher adds: “Because of the kinds of work where attachments are used, they generally require more frequent inspections than the equipment they’re fitted to. This is another sticking point we frequently hear about, as owners assume that attachments only need to be checked as often as the truck they’re used on.  

“To eliminate any doubt, my advice is to contact your nearest CFTS-accredited provider. They’ll give you expert guidance and advice, obligation free, so that you can stay safe, productive, and legally compliant.”