As the industry's own agreed standard for Thorough Examinations, CFTS ensures that work equipment is in safe working order thanks to mandatory inspections covering LOLER and PUWER. These must be carried out by a CFTS-accredited Competent Person. 

However, that comes with its challenges. Some of the most common problems we see are those with schedules, expiring certificates, and ensuring customers receive accurate reports following their equipment inspection. 

That's where the Thorough Examination app for members comes in, recently updated based on member feedback to simplify inspections even further. 

Paper vs Digital 

One of the biggest apprehensions when it comes to transitioning to the app is the idea that paper records are more reliable and accurate. This is simply not true. We see them get lost, altered, and misused meaning that unsafe machines can possibly remain in use.  

What's more, because these digital records on the app are tamper-proof and more accessible, you have greater protection in the case of an HSE investigation. In an environment where the HSE has an improved 96% conviction rate for prosecutions, and fines routinely exceed 6 or 7 figures, you need to offer as much transparency and consistency as possible. These are two things that paper records simply cannot guarantee. 

The latest updates 

Since the launch of the app in 2025, we have seen a strong uptake from members. However, to improve the experience further, we asked for feedback so that we could implement changes in version 1.1.0. 

What's new? 

• Additional email fields when completing inspections 

• Backdate reports where they weren’t completed on the day 

• Add company logos to reports and certificates 

• New product-specific worksheets 

• Checklist for adding multiple workshop equipment items to a report 

• Director-level access to all depot information  

• Improved search functions 

• Two walkthrough videos on YouTube, if you’d rather watch than read 

These have been added to simplify inspections further and ultimately, help to create safer, and more efficient worksites around the UK — all based on member feedback. 

Outside of the latest updates, the app was already built and developed from industry professionals who knew what the pain points were that needed fixing.   

Key features include: 

• Generate and send automated customer compliance reports 

• Identify and proactively chase expiring customer certificates  

• Manage inspection schedules, customer details, and equipment requirements all in one place 

• Access preloaded checklists to ensure every inspection is accurate  

• Add photos, notes, and additional fields for specific machine types 

• Easily manage bookings, assign tasks, and keep track of deadlines 

And more... 

The app is just the latest step 

CFTS was created to remove doubt by setting a clear, industry-wide standard that covers both LOLER and PUWER. And what has always set CFTS members apart is their commitment to go beyond the basics. The comprehensive approach has helped businesses all around the UK have peace of mind that machinery is safe, compliant, and ready for action. 

And the CFTS Thorough Examination app is just the next step in making inspections more efficient and truly thorough. With every update, and every piece of member feedback, the experience becomes more efficient for both our members, and the customers who rely on them. 

Use this as your prompt to take a closer look at inspection practices. Are paper records leaving you at risk? Are you sure your equipment is receiving a complete inspection with traceable records and reports? 

If not, then speak to a CFTS-accredited company of which there are 800+ around the nation. Finding a qualified examiner has never been easier.