Case Study: Brand New Lifting Equipment Rejected During Examination

“New doesn’t always mean compliant.”

A client recently supplied us with a brand new item of lifting equipment purchased online for examination before use.

Although the equipment had never been used, our examination quickly identified several issues that raised immediate concerns over whether it was suitable for lifting operations.

This is a good reminder that buying brand new equipment does not automatically mean it is compliant or safe to put into service.

The Problem

The client had recently purchased lifting equipment online believing that, because it was brand new, it would be ready to use following examination.

However, once presented for examination, several issues immediately became apparent.

• No visible CE or UKCA marking.
• No evidence of compliance with EN13157.
• Questionable Safe Working Load information.

Why This Matters

Many buyers understandably assume that if equipment arrives boxed, unused and supplied with paperwork it must be compliant.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

A competent examiner should assess more than whether the equipment looks new. Markings, standards, traceability and overall suitability all form part of the examination process.

Learn more about our Thorough Examination of Lifting Accessories service.

Outcome

Because the issues were identified before the equipment entered service, the client avoided introducing potentially unsuitable lifting equipment into the workplace.

Although disappointing, identifying these issues early is exactly what a competent examination is designed to achieve.

Final Takeaway

This case highlights why new equipment should never be assumed to be compliant simply because it has never been used.

Independent examination helps ensure lifting equipment meets the necessary standards before anyone relies upon it during lifting operations.