School Non-Permanent Load Container Safety Checklist

Use this checklist only where a pallet, skip, ladle or similar item is carried as a load and is lifted at the school. If the item is permanently attached to lifting machinery, stop and use the applicable lifting-equipment inspection arrangements instead.

Record the asset reference or other identifying description for the pallet, skip, ladle or similar item being inspected.

Record the date on which this inspection is carried out.

Record the name or identifier of the person carrying out the inspection.

Record what material or load the item is intended to carry and how it will be lifted.

Inspect the item for visible damage, deterioration, contamination or other condition issues that could affect safe use or lifting.

Check the body, base, sides, rim, corners, welds, joints and other structural parts for cracks, distortion, holes, splits, separation or other damage.

Check each lifting point, lug, eye, hook point, attachment point or equivalent feature for damage, distortion, looseness, cracking, excessive wear or separation.

Where slings, chains, hooks, shackles or other accessories are used with the item, check that they are present, compatible with the lifting arrangement and free from visible damage or disconnection.

Check that the item has the features needed to retain its intended load during handling and lifting, and record any missing, damaged or ineffective feature.

Check that the item and its lifting arrangement can remain stable and controlled during the planned lift, with no observed condition that could cause the item or load to shift unexpectedly.

Check whether the item has any available identification, handling information or markings needed for its intended use, and record anything missing, unclear or illegible.

Considering the item’s condition, intended load and lifting arrangement, decide whether it is suitable for the planned lifting activity.

Record every defect, damage, deterioration, missing part, uncertainty or other observation identified during this inspection.

If the item is damaged, defective, unsuitable or its safe use cannot be confirmed, select withdrawal and prevent its use for lifting until the issue has been addressed.

Where withdrawal is selected, identify how the item will be clearly separated, labelled or otherwise controlled so that it is not used for lifting before release.

Record the maintenance, repair, replacement, cleaning or other action required to address each identified issue.

Record the person, role or contractor responsible for completing or arranging each maintenance or corrective action.

Record how and when the item will be rechecked after maintenance, repair or other corrective action, where follow-up is required.

Record the outcome based on the inspection findings and any withdrawal or maintenance action.

Add any further information needed to explain the inspection, findings, decisions, communications or actions.