Food & Drink Process & Packaging Issue 21 2018 | Page 9

A thorough Thorough Examination standard Having identified the issue early on, the UK’s two leading authorities on lift truck operations, BITA (British Industrial Truck Association) and FLTA (Fork Lift Truck Association) joined forces. In 2004, they launched CFTS with a view to establishing a scheme ensuring simple ‘one-stop’ compliance for any company operating lift trucks. After all, lift truck operations are hazardous enough without worrying about your Thorough Examination criteria, too. The CFTS quality-controlled standard gives employers the confident and comprehensive compliance they need. Today, more than 400 accredited companies – including major industry players – adhere to our strict guidelines… and for good reason. Our Thorough Examination process provides them with a robust examination framework. Importantly, it ensures the depth of inspection necessary to ensure employers are working safely and legally – wherever they are in the UK. The CFTS difference A good example of CFTS’ approach can be found in our chain inspection guidelines. Chains perform such a key role in your truck’s lifting mechanism and it is our view that they should be treated as such. For some examiners, however, this ‘testing’ is done visually. While visual inspections are important and have a place, it’s impossible to accurately check for chain wear using the naked eye. This is why competent persons employed by our accredited companies measure wear using a gauge designed specifically for this purpose. And, just like a CFTS Thorough Examination itself, its precise (and replicable) measurements ensure operations are safe and compliant. As well as videos and interactive guides, employers can use the member finder to locate their nearest accredited company. Find out more The CFTS website – www.thoroughexamination.org – offers further guidance on Thorough Examination. FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 9