TAIL LIFTS & RAMPS
The recommendations and advice in this work instruction are based on specifications, procedures
and other information, which has been collated from existing standards and manufacturer’s
instructions. The information contained applies to all configurations of Tail Lifts, Mobile Lifts and
Ramps associated with vehicles BS 6109-2.
However, there are a wide variety of situations where Tail lifts and Mobile lifts may be used,
consequently in all cases the suitability and safety of this guidance must be determined by the
person seeking to apply it on the basis of his own judgement, in the light of the conditions in which
use is envisaged and subject to all relevant statutory requirements.
It includes thorough examination of the lifting parts of the machine(s) (covered by LOLER 98,
regulation 9) as well as inspection of other safety critical parts which are not directly part of the
lifting mechanism (covered by PUWER 98, regulation 6) The vehicle on which the Tail lift or Mobile
lift is attached must also conform to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations.
Periodical examinations and tests to be carried out according to the operating conditions and
frequency of use bearing in mind ref 2.1 of this guidance. The content of periodical examinations
and tests i.e.
- a visual examination of the structure with special attention to corrosion and other damage of load
– bearing parts and welds; - an examination of the mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical
systems with special attention to safety devices; - a test to prove the effectiveness of brakes and/or
overload devices; - functional tests. NOTE: It is normally not necessary to dismantle parts at
periodical examinations, unless there are doubts in relation to reliability and safety. The removal of
covers, the exposure of observation apertures, and bringing the Tail lift or Mobile lift to the
transport position are not considered to be dismantling.
SAFETY INSPECTIONS
Visually check any handrail on the platform it must be adequately secured and not corroded.
Check the height of the handrail to be at least 800mm high.
The rails to be 30mm to 35mm in diameter.
A surface that is slip-resistant when either wet or dry should be used on the lift platform or ramp.
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Any mechanical safety devices should engage positively
All movement of the lift or ramp should stop automatically when the controls are released
All directional movement indicators should be clearly marked
Check isolation controls are operative.
Check operating speed of the lifting and lowering movement of the tail lift it should not exceed 0.10
m/s.
LOAD HANDLING MECHANISM
Visually inspect the assembly and operate the mechanism through its full range of movements to
establish that it moves in a controlled and even manner. In particular look for any marks/scoring,
which indicate that the physical movement of the platform may be impaired. Look for deterioration
(corrosion, cracking, abrasion) etc.
Safety features to be checked at specified intervals including safety devices, load holding actuators,
over-riding emergency device, any emergency stop equipment.
All wire rope drives and pulleys where fitted are functional and not damaged i.e. broken wires, worn,
abrasion etc. All chain drives including pulleys and sprockets where fitted are functional and not
damaged. Rope and chains should also be of the size and type as specified in the manufacturer’s
handbook
Where hydraulic systems are employed all hoses should be checked for damage and leakages
Check level of hydraulic fluid and pressure relief valve.
The deflection should be kept to a minimum and should not cause danger.
BRAKING SYSTEMS
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Visually inspect all hydraulic or pneumatic hoses, piping or components for leaks, corrosion and signs
of potential failure. Also check security of mountings.
Check the mechanical condition of brake operating pedals and levers. Carry out functional testing of
the brake controls to ensure that they move freely, as expected, when the brakes are operated.
CONTROL GEAR
All electrical gear covered by the relevant fuses and no loose or damaged wiring.
All mechanical gear to be operative to control any mechanical failure so that the platform will be
arrested within 50mm of its position at the time of failure.
MARKINGS
All lifts should be clearly marked with the safe working load, the maximum number of
persons/wheelchairs.
All lifts should be marked with the manufacturer’s name and address, the type and serial numb
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