FLT modifications are offered by many companies, but they are far from risk free and can have consequences for health and safety, and warranties, the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) and the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) have said.
They warned that truck modifications that are not factory approved can affect capacity, stability and safety requirements, and firms making modifications do not realise the consequences, or are not aware of their responsibilities and liabilities.
BITA secretary-general James Clark said: “A recent presentation to our Truck Suppliers Group (TSG) clearly demonstrated the risks and dangers behind unauthorised modifications, making the point that assessment and implementation of truck modifications is a skilled task requiring detailed and specialised engineering knowledge.”
Peter Harvey, FLTA chief executive, added: “Unauthorised modifications or repairs – even changing tyres – could invalidate rental contracts or manufacturer warranties, leaving users to foot repair bills.
“So it is crucial that those utilising lift trucks understand what they can and cannot do. Failure to do so puts them at risk of unexpected repair bills and much more. Before making any changes to the original equipment customers must consult the manufacturer or authorised dealer.”
Examples of modifications commonly being offered include mast reductions, drive-in racking modifications, and truck head guard modifications, the organisations said. There are also more ‘informal’ modifications such as adding additional weight (in the form of drums full of water or toolboxes filled with concrete) to increase the lifting capacity of counterbalance trucks.
Clark added: “Those undertaking such work should understand that, depending on the modification, they may have inadvertently taken on the responsibilities of being the equipment manufacturer, with all the risks of prosecution and redress this entails.
“Modification of a FLT without the manufacturer’s approval could invalidate the warranty and the CE marking, making it difficult if not impossible to re-sell elsewhere. This is an issue to which, as an organisation which cares deeply about safety at all levels, causes us great concern.”
