Forklift test could compromise safety

He insists the current Thorough Examination inspection for forklift trucks does not place sufficient emphasis on checking the chain that controls the truck's lifting and lowering functions – and says there has been a rise in sub-standard chain entering the UK market. "At present, there is no requirement for the person carrying out the Thorough Examination to see a truck's chain test certificate – unless they believe that the incorrect chain has been fitted. However, with one forklift chain looking very much like another, it is difficult to detect an inadequate chain from a visual inspection alone. Which is why, in my view, a truck's chain test certificate should be checked and verified as part of the Thorough Examination inspection process." Chain certificates used to be inspected as part of a forklift truck's annual check. However, this changed following the introduction of the CE Marking scheme and the Machinery Directive. "Since the arrival of the CE Mark, the truck manufacturer has simply issued a one-off compliance document to the user that covers everything – including the chain. This means that truck users no longer receive a chain test certificate when they buy a new truck." Typically, a chain will last from three to five years and are often not included in the truck's maintenance package. Taylor recommends buying replacement chains from a reputable leaf chain manufacturer or going direct to the truck manufacturer. All replacement chains should be issued with a certificate, showing minimum breaking load and proof load applied (a test which demonstrates the chain can support at least one and a half times its safe working load weight).