The Hidden Costs of Skipping a Thorough Examination

When it comes to inspections of workplace equipment it can be easy to assume a quick check or basic service is enough.

But overlooking a truly Thorough Examination that covers key components as required by LOLER and PUWER can leave your business exposed. Companies assume the biggest threat from skipping inspections are financial ones such as fines. However, the ramifications go far beyond that.

Keeping your reputation

You can only make a first impression once, and for a company solely dependent on its customer base to keep running, reputation is everything.

If equipment hasn’t been properly checked, it will get worse over time. What might’ve been a simple fix can become a major repair or replacement. And when this happens during a shift, it brings entire operations to a halt. That can affect more than just the internal day-to-day movements.

With delays in your operation, customers are let down, and the reputational damage that you are doing to yourself is irreversible. Both existing and prospective customers lose confidence, and you lose business.

And this goes beyond just one customer. We see companies all the time who rely on good word of mouth to get new business. And with the reputation of your company harmed, it becomes that much harder to reel in those key prospective customers.

However, a proper Thorough Examination will catch these defects early, saving you time, money, and most importantly, your reputation.

Putting your staff first

One of the most overlooked impacts of skipping a Thorough Examination is how it impacts those who use the equipment every day – your staff.

A proper Thorough Examination is more than just a legal obligation. Businesses have a moral responsibility to ensure the safety and productivity of their staff. And with 27% of all non-fatal injuries reported under RIDDOR relating to the materials handling industry, it’s more relevant than ever. They need to have faith that the equipment they’re using is safe to operate, because even the most experienced drivers can’t compensate for faulty equipment.

And if the literal value of your staff is more of an incentive, then consider the time needed to recruit and train a replacement after an injury has occurred from faulty equipment – not to mention the impact on your other staff.

Future proofing

Skipping a Thorough Examination may at first glance look like you’re saving costs – but that’s never the case. Literal costs, such as fines and legal fees, are just the start. Hidden costs are what can do lasting damage to your business if you don’t look after your equipment and your staff with timely Thorough Examinations.

To ensure that you don’t miss a Thorough Examination, you can use our calculator to find out when your next inspection is due: Thorough Examination Calculator

For assurance that you are getting a proper CFTS Thorough Examination that covers both LOLER and PUWER regulations, you can use our search tool to find your nearest CFTS-accredited examiner: Find an Accredited Examiner