… and all of them up to the mark. 

Year-end results demonstrate continued growth in demand for CFTS-accredited Thorough Examinations, with over 95,000 CFTS inspections conducted in 2022.

CFTS Chairman Geoff Martin believes that while there are many reasons for this success, there is one unifying factor: the CFTS Quality Mark.  

“Since the formation of CFTS, the distinctive and recognisable Quality Mark has been synonymous with the high standard, consistency and user-friendliness of a CFTS-accredited Thorough Examination,” explains Mr Martin.

“It is why users will see it at every stage of the CFTS process, from the inspection checklist to the examination certificate, as well as on a prominent sticker on the equipment that tells you when your next inspection is due.”

Unlike almost every alternative inspection, only a CFTS-accredited Thorough Examination covers the whole equipment. That means not only the lifting mechanism, forks and chains (as prescribed under LOLER), but also any attachments, brakes, steering and tyres (as required under PUWER legislation) ensuring you comply fully with HSE guidelines.  

“The Quality Mark is our guarantee that a CFTS-accredited examiner visiting your site has at least five years' practical experience, has undergone a demanding Thorough Examination course, and attends regular refresher training,” adds Mr Martin.

“And in purely practical and financial terms that matters. Because CFTS examiners are trained, working engineers they have not only the knowledge and competence to carry out a Thorough Examination and report any faults, but also the skills and equipment to repair the truck. As a result, any unplanned downtime is either minimised or eliminated altogether. 

“Furthermore, by using the most accurate, specialised equipment those engineers are able to guarantee precise, repeatable and transparent results so the customer can be assured that chains, forks and other crucial but expensive items are not being replaced unnecessarily early.  

“CFTS-accredited companies are also unique in using nationally approved documentation which is particularly important if an organisation operates across several sites.    

“I am delighted to say that more than 750 CFTS-accredited depots now cover every part of the UK, serving sectors as diverse as materials handling, construction and agriculture. No business should be far off the mark.”