Do I Need a Forklift MOT Service?
When it comes to maintaining heavy machinery, few things are as important as regular inspections. Forklifts play a vital role in the operations of many industries, from warehouses to construction sites. While forklifts don’t require a traditional MOT (Ministry of Transport) like road vehicles, they do need regular safety inspections to ensure they’re roadworthy and safe to operate.
Below, we explore the forklift equivalent of an MOT check, known as a Thorough Examination, and how it compares to the MOT test for goods vehicles and trailers.
What Is a Thorough Examination for Forklifts?
A Thorough Examination for forklifts is similar to an MOT for road vehicles, but it’s more rigorous and tailored specifically to lifting equipment. While you can’t check the MOT status or MOT history of a forklift on gov.uk like you can with a car, forklift examinations are equally important to ensure safety and legal compliance.
The examination is a legal requirement that makes sure forklifts meet the law’s standards:
- Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998 [1]
- Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) [2]
How Does the Thorough Examination Process Compare to an MOT?
While both are safety inspections, there are some key differences:
- Legal basis – MOTs are governed by the Road Traffic Act, while Thorough Examinations fall under different regulations.
- Frequency – MOTs are typically annual, while Thorough Examinations can be required more frequently.
- Scope – Thorough Examinations are generally more comprehensive.
- Examiner qualifications – MOT testers are certified by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency), while forklift examiners must be deemed “competent persons” under different regulations.
How Often Do Forklifts Need a Thorough Examination?
Unlike the annual MOT required for most road vehicles, the frequency of Thorough Examinations for forklifts can vary. While most forklifts require an annual examination [3], some models may require more frequent examinations – just like some goods vehicles require more frequent MOT tests.
It’s crucial to keep track of your forklift’s examination schedule, much like you would monitor a vehicle’s MOT expiry date. Consider:
- Using a digital asset management system
- Setting up reminders
- Displaying the next examination due date on each forklift
- Partnering with a forklift provider that offers maintenance management services
What Does a Forklift Thorough Examination Include?
A Thorough Examination is comprehensive and covers all safety-critical components of the forklift. While it doesn’t result in an MOT certificate like a vehicle MOT test, it does provide documentation of the forklift’s roadworthy condition. The inspection typically includes:
- Brakes
- Steering
- Tyres and wheels
- Mast and forks
- Chains and hydraulic systems
- Safety devices and warning systems
- Structural integrity
- Engine or battery systems
- Operator controls and instruments
- Lights and beacons
Who Can Perform a Thorough Examination?
Thorough Examinations for forklifts must be conducted by a company or person accredited by the Consolidated Fork Truck Services (CFTS). This is typically an engineer with specific training and experience in forklift inspections, similar to how MOT testers must be certified by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
What Happens After the Thorough Examination?
Following the examination, you’ll receive a report detailing the condition of your forklift. While this isn’t the same as an MOT certificate, it serves a similar purpose in confirming the forklift’s roadworthy status. If any issues are identified, they’ll be categorised based on their severity, similar to how an MOT test might result in advisories or failures.
How Is a Thorough Examination Different from Regular Maintenance?
While both are important for keeping your forklift in good working order, a Thorough Examination is distinct from regular maintenance:
Thorough Examination
A Thorough Examination is a comprehensive safety inspection required by law, serving a similar purpose to an MOT test for road vehicles. This inspection focuses on ensuring the safety and compliance of your forklift, identifying any critical issues that could affect its safe operation.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance involves ongoing servicing and repairs to keep the forklift in optimal working condition, comparable to routine vehicle servicing between MOT tests. This preventive care addresses wear and tear, helping to maintain performance and extend the lifespan of the equipment.
What Are the Consequences of Not Having a Valid Thorough Examination?
Operating a forklift without a valid Thorough Examination is similar to driving a vehicle without a valid MOT. Consequences can include:
- Legal penalties
- Insurance issues
- Increased accident risk
- Reputational damage
Can I Perform My Own Thorough Examination?
While it’s possible for someone within your organisation to become an accredited examiner, it’s generally recommended to use an independent accredited examiner. This is similar to how MOT tests must be carried out by authorised testers.
How Can TAG Forklift Trucks Help with My Forklift Maintenance?
At TAG Forklift Trucks, we offer a range of services to help keep your forklifts safe, compliant, and in optimal working condition:
- Regular maintenance packages
- Repairs and parts
- New and used equipment sales
- Forklift hire
- Operator training
A Commitment to Safety and Roadworthiness
While forklifts don’t require an MOT in the traditional sense, the Thorough Examination process is equally important for ensuring safety and legal compliance. Regular examinations, combined with proper maintenance and operator training, are crucial for minimising risks and maximising productivity in your workplace.
Remember, compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties – it’s about creating a safer working environment for your team and maintaining the efficiency of your operations. Contact the team at TAG Forklift Trucks today with any queries.
Sources:
Source 1: https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/loler-overview.htm
Source 2: https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/puwer.htm
