We are Southern Forklift Services Ltd, experts in thorough examinations – ensuring that your equipment is safe, reliable and fully legal. Our thorough examinations are a legal requirement for all businesses and play a key role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of your operations. Let us ensure the continued operation of your equipment and contact us to see how we can help!
Thorough Examination (LOLER)
Understanding Thorough Examinations
A Thorough Forklift Examination is a legal requirement as depicted in The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER). This law places duties on individuals and companies who own, operate or have control over lifting equipment, including forklifts. The LOLER law requires that all lifting equipment:
- Be fit for purpose.
- Appropriate for the task.
- Suitably marked.
- Subject to statutory periodic ‘Thorough Examination’.
What is a Thorough Examination?
A thorough examination is a systematic and meticulous examination of equipment and safety-critical parts to identify any defects that are or might become dangerous. If you own, operate or have control over lifting equipment, including forklifts, you must ensure that the lifting equipment undergoes a Thorough Examination by law. We offer thorough examinations annually or every six months in line with LOLER requirements for machines used for lifting people. Our thorough examinations are suitable for all types and models of forklifts, stackers, telehandlers, mobile lifting platforms, and picking machines. Contact us today to schedule your Thorough Examination.
When should a thorough examination be carried out?
To ensure your lifting equipment is safe and to identify any issues early, thorough examinations are essential. Here’s when you need them:
- Follow the LOLER specified intervals (every 6 or 12 months)
- After Exceptional Circumstances
- If your equipment is damaged, has been out of use or has undergone
- modifications or critical part replacements.
How do thorough examinations work?
Review
Our team begin with a detailed review of your forklift’s maintenance records and any previous examination reports. This helps us identify any common issues or areas that need special attention.
Inspection
We will perform a thorough visual inspection of your whole equipment to check for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. This includes examining the forks, chains, tyres, and all safety devices.
Operational Checks
We undertake several operational checks to ensure that all controls are operating correctly. This includes testing the steering, brakes, lifting mechanisms, and tilt functions.
Load Tests
For machines designed for lifting, we complete load tests to ensure that the equipment can safely handle its maximum load(s). This involves lifting and holding a test load at various heights and positions.
Safety System Checks
Our forklift specialists will inspect all relevant safety systems, including seat belts, warning lights, horns, emergency stop functions and more, to ensure they are in proper working order.
Reporting
We will provide you with a full report detailing our findings and any recommendations for forklift repairs or maintenance. Keep hold of the report for compliance records and any follow-up actions.
The Benefits of Thorough Examinations
Thorough Examinations FAQs
What is a LOLER certificate?
A Lifting Operations & Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) certification ensures your lifting equipment is safe to use. We will provide you with full documentation once servicing is complete.
How often do I need a thorough examination?
Legally, thorough examinations are required yearly or every six months for machines used for lifting people.
Who can perform a thorough examination?
Examinations must be conducted by a competent person with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience. Southern Forklift Services Ltd has a team of certified experts ready to assist you.
What types of equipment need a thorough examination?
All lifting equipment, including forklifts, stackers, telehandlers, mobile lifting platforms, and picking machines, require regular thorough examinations.
What happens if my equipment fails the examination?
If your equipment fails the examination, we will provide a detailed report outlining the issues and recommendations for repairs. We can also assist with any necessary maintenance or repairs to bring your equipment back into compliance. Contact us today for more information.
How long does a thorough examination take?
The time a thorough examination takes will depend on the type and condition of the equipment. Typically, a thorough examination can take a few hours to complete.
Can I use my equipment during the examination?
The equipment must be taken out of service during the examination to ensure a comprehensive and safe inspection.
Do I need to keep records of the examinations?
Yes, it is a legal requirement to keep records of all thorough examination for at least two years.
What should I do to prepare for a thorough examination?
Ensure the equipment is clean and accessible and provide any relevant maintenance records or previous examination reports to our team.
What areas do you cover?
We offer thorough examinations in Kent, the Medway Towns, and East Sussex.
How much do thorough examinations cost?
The cost of thorough examinations will vary. Give us a call today for a quote with no hidden costs!
Why choose Southern Forklift Services Ltd?
Great Value for Money & No Hidden Costs
5★ Customer Service, Every Time
