Pallet Truck Inspections
PUWER Compliance for Manual and Powered Pallet Trucks
Pallet trucks are widely used across warehouses, distribution centres, retail stockrooms and industrial environments. As work equipment, they must be suitable for use, maintained in safe condition and inspected where necessary in accordance with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).
Excel Inspection Solutions provides independent pallet truck inspections to support PUWER compliance and help dutyholders manage risk, prevent accidents and maintain safe handling operations.
What PUWER Requires for Pallet Trucks
Under PUWER, employers and those responsible for pallet trucks must ensure equipment is:
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Suitable for the intended loads and working environment
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Maintained in safe working condition
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Free from defects that could cause harm
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Inspected where necessary to confirm ongoing safety
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Used only by trained and competent personnel
Pallet trucks are often subject to heavy use, making regular inspection essential.
Types of Pallet Trucks We Inspect
Our Engineer Surveyors inspect a wide range of pallet trucks, including:
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Manual pallet trucks
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Electric pallet trucks
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Powered pallet stackers
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High lift pallet trucks
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Weighing pallet trucks
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Pedestrian operated pallet handling equipment
Inspections consider both the mechanical condition and the suitability of the equipment for its intended use.
What We Check During a Pallet Truck Inspection
A PUWER inspection typically includes:
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Visual checks for damage or excessive wear
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Condition of forks, wheels and rollers
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Operation of lifting and lowering mechanisms
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Hydraulic systems and controls
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Braking and steering performance
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Handle assemblies and safety features
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Stability and load handling capability
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Review of maintenance or defect history where available
All findings are recorded in a written PUWER inspection report.
Why Pallet Truck Inspections Matter
Regular inspections help to:
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Reduce the risk of injuries and manual handling incidents
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Identify defects before equipment fails
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Maintain smooth warehouse operations
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Support compliance with PUWER and HSE guidance
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Demonstrate due diligence to insurers and auditors
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Extend the service life of equipment
Even simple equipment can pose serious risks if not maintained and inspected properly.
Pallet Truck Inspection Reports
Following each inspection, we provide a clear written report detailing:
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Equipment identification
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Inspection findings
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Any defects or safety concerns
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Recommended corrective actions
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Guidance on continued safe use
Reports form part of your statutory safety documentation.
Why Choose Excel Inspection Solutions?
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Independent and competent Engineer Surveyors
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Clear, practical reporting
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PUWER compliant inspection process
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Flexible scheduling to minimise disruption
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Coverage across the South East and wider UK
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Our inspections are tailored to the equipment type, usage and environment.
Pallet Truck Inspection FAQs
Do pallet trucks fall under PUWER?
Yes. Pallet trucks are classed as work equipment and must be suitable, maintained and inspected where necessary under PUWER.
How often should pallet trucks be inspected?
Inspection frequency depends on usage and risk. Many dutyholders carry out regular checks supported by formal inspections.
Do you inspect electric pallet trucks?
Yes. We inspect both manual and powered pallet trucks, including electric and high lift models.
Is this the same as a maintenance service?
No. PUWER inspections assess safety and compliance, while maintenance focuses on servicing and repairs.
Is a pallet truck inspection a legal requirement?
PUWER requires that work equipment is maintained and inspected where necessary to ensure safety. Inspections help demonstrate compliance and manage risk.
Looking for support beyond pallet truck inspections?
Looking for support beyond pallet truck inspections?
Excel Inspection Solutions provides a full range of statutory inspection services for workplace and lifting equipment. From order pickers and pallet racking to lifts, cranes, mobile plant, pressure systems and work at height equipment, our Engineer Surveyors deliver independent, compliant inspections across the South East.