CFTS Warns Employers Over Dangers Of Second-Hand Trucks

The CFTS are urging employers to carry out regular examinations on used trucks. It recently raised concerns that despite legal requirements under LOLER & PUWER, thousands of used trucks across the UK are not being regularly examined and could pose a serious safety risk to workers.

The CFTS is the accrediting body for UK’s largest and fastest-growing network of Thorough Examination specialists.

CFTS Chairman, Geoff Martin, said: “The market for second-hand work equipment is huge. If you are buying a used truck or renting one long term, it might be tempting to try and bag a bargain, but you could end up with a potentially lethal piece of kit if you don’t do your due diligence. The costs could end up far higher than any saving you make on a used truck.

“My advice is to ask to see a Thorough Examination Report. This will prove that equipment has been checked by a competent person with the appropriate knowledge and experience to detect defects – as is outlined in guidance from the HSE.

“Owners have a legal and moral responsibility to their operators to ensure that equipment is safe to use,” adds Geoff Martin. “Even if you are only borrowing the equipment, you should be confident that it is in good working order. If you are not sure of the report’s validity or legitimacy, call an accredited Thorough Examination provider.”

Knaresborough-based Plant Inspection Services added, “A Thorough Examination is not usually included in a truck’s regular maintenance regime despite their being some overlap between the two. As a result, a Thorough Examination must be specifically requested. If a hire truck or used truck doesn’t have a valid Thorough Examination report to show, it is not worth the risk in using it.”

For more information, visit plantinspectionservices.co.uk.