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Users face danger if using unauthorised changes.
UK – The British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) and the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) have warned that unauthorised modifications to fork lift trucks can endanger staff and invalidate warranties. The services, widely advertised and offered by many companies, are far from risk-free with the two industry bodies saying that truck modifications that are not factory approved may affect capacity, stability or safety requirements. BITA Secretary-General James Clark explains:
“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.”
“It’s not as if the regulations are hard to understand. However only the most cursory web search is required to identify companies advertising modification changes to forklift trucks, as if this were normal practice and presented no safety hazards whatsoever.”
The two associations warned that companies making modifications do not realise the consequences, or are not aware of their responsibilities and liabilities, should something go wrong with a modification at a later date, though there is a very clear standard for the safety requirements of industrial trucks, BS EN ISO 3691-1:2015, which states in paragraph 6.2.7.1 that ‘unauthorised truck modification is not permitted’. Peter Harvey MBE, FLTA Chief Executive, commented:
“This is an important industry-wide issue, and is especially important when trucks are leased. 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.” Read more
Source: HANDY SHIPPING GUIDE
