Each empoyer shall ensure that equipment provided is fit for purpose for which it is provided. (PUWER 98 Regulation 4 Pages 19-23).

Particular note should be taken of :-

• VENTILATION
  
  
  When used in restricted operations such as container stuffing particular attention should be paid to the selection of motive poer used. Normally electric preferred. (PUWER 98, Regulation4 Pages 22-23 Paras 110-115)

• PERSONNEL TRANSPORTATION
  
  
  Only suitable equipment must be used that has been constructed for the purpose of carrying people. PUWER98 Regulation 25, Pages 61-63.

• FALLING OBJECT PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE (FOPS)
  
  
  Nearly all forklift trucks reuire FOPS. Commonly known and referred to as Overhead Loadguards these are designed to protect the operator from falling objects. They are rated to handle to protect from the normal rated capacity of the forklift to which they are fitted. FOPS are safety critical items and if damaged should be reported to BUDGET Forktrucks as they need specialist repair. PUWER 98 Regulation 25 Page 62. Para 331.

• ROLL OVER PROTECTIVE STRUCTURES (ROPS)
  
  
  It is the employers responsibility to ensure that fork lifts which carry employees is so constructed to reduce as low as reasonably practical to reduce the risk of overturning. PUWER 98 Regulation26 pages 66-67) also Regulation 26.

• Most forklifts have vertical masts and cannot normally tip over more than 90 degrees so therefore do not need specific ROPS. The FOPS normally surrounds the driver but is not constructed to be strong enough to carry the full forklift weight). Different types of machine such as variable reach trucks do need RPOS. Again these are critical items if damaged should be reported to BUDGET Forktrucks as they need specialist repair.

• Seat belts are normally fitted to counterbalance trucks prevent crushing of the operator between the truck and the ground where there is a foreseeable risk of overturning. Due to the nature of a lift truck, all situations during use could constitute a risk of overturning therefore all Forklift trucks must be fitted with restraining devices normally seat belts, these are not normally fitted to reach trucks. If seat belts are not fitted to c/balance trucks a risk assessment must be done. It is imperative that seats belts are correctly fitted and secured and not to a part of the trucks that is not secure. Again Budget can quote for the supply and fitment of seat belts.

• LIGHTS BEACONS ALARMS MIRRORS
  
  
  There is no specific requirement to fit these items but they can add greatly to safety and Budget are happy to quote to fit these. In the case of electrical extras these should always be fitted by experienced engineers as damage can occur to forklifts by incorrect fitment. PUWER 98. Beacons Reg 24  Mirrors Reg 28e Lights Reg 28f.

• CE MARKING
  
  
  All equipment supplied should be CE marked as required by Supply of machinery (Safety) regulations 1992. PUWER 98 Reg 10 Page 39, para. 204-206.

• Every employer is required to ensure that work equipment is maintained in a safe and efficient state and in good repair.

• Forklifts need frequent checking to ensure that safety features are all functioning correctly. Frequency is decided by number of working hours, environment and type of operation. Budget can advise frequency of service. Budget operates a 3-tier maintenance plan (Click here for details) to suit most operations and would be pleased to quote for your specific operation.

• Pre shift checks. Employers must ensure that forklift operators have appropriate training and instruction on the specific type of machine used so they can determine that the forklift is safe for use. Budget can supply pre shift check books – please contact our parts to purchase.

• All employers must ensure that equipment which are exposed to the elements or conditions which may result in dangerous situations is inspected so that any deterioration can be spotted and remedied in a  timely manner.