A survey of companies owning and operating forklift trucks has found that 93% do not understand what is covered by Thorough Examinations, the forklift equivalent of an MOT. Most are unclear about what is included and who is responsible for ensuring trucks conform to legislation.

On the plus side, the survey of a cross-section of UK forklift truck users – conducted by Consolidated Fork Truck Services – did show that most (76%) understand that the Thorough Examination is a legal requirement, not just recommended good practice.

However, the findings show there to be considerable confusion over what is included within the examination. Most strikingly, 93% assumed that any Thorough Examination would automatically include an inspection of truck brakes as a matter of course – which it does not.

According to Simon Emery, chairman of CFTS: "The confusion arises because, unlike the MOT on a car, the requirements of a Thorough Examination are open to interpretation. In effect, the body providing the inspection is able to decide what should and shouldn't be included."

The nub of the problem, he said, is that forklift inspection is governed by two pieces of legislation: PUWER and LOLER. However, an alarming number of inspectors only include those items covered by LOLER – such as mast, chains and forks.

"In doing so they totally ignore crucial areas such as overhead guards, steering, brakes and other vital components," said Emery. "As a result, managers and directors responsible for forklift trucks may fall foul of PUWER 98 legislation on ensuring the suitability of workplace equipment."

CFTS is a joint venture run by two trade associations, the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) and the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA), and is supported by HSE. Companies accredited to the scheme are identified by a kite certification mark.

An online tool is available to identify which parts of a forklift truck are covered by LOLER and which by PUWER.