Cracks found in scissor lifts in Northern Ireland

Further delays to MOT tests are expected

Cracks found in scissor lifts in Northern Ireland

Cracks have been found in several MOT testing lifts in Northern Ireland, raising concerns over the safety of testers and the knock-on effect it will have on drivers waiting for a test.

The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) confirmed that “small hairline cracks” have been found in 16 lifts, adding that they “are not the same issue as the cracks identified in scissor lifts at the end of 2019, early 2020.”

In 2019, cracks were discovered in 52 out of the 55 lifts in Northern Ireland, causing widespread disruption and raising significant concerns over safety.

It emerged that the DVA lost about £2.95m worth of income in the 2019-2020 financial year, made up of £980,000 paid out as compensation for thousands of cancelled tests and the £1.8m required to replace the faulty lifts.

Officials says that all lifts remain in use following this latest discovery and that independent inspectors have found the cracks to be in the lowest category. It added that the equipment provider (MAHA) has identified small hairline cracks in the welds of the main scissor bushing of 16 lifts.

A spokesperson for the DVA said: “The DVA has robust maintenance arrangements in place to ensure all vehicle testing equipment operates safely and effectively. 

“All lifts remain in service and MOT appointments have not been affected.

“The inspection frequency for the affected scissors lifts has been increased and the equipment provider is assessing the cause of the hairline cracks and their findings will inform any remedial action required.”

DUP MLA Deborah Erskine, chair of Stormont’s scrutiny committee for the Department for Infrastructure, raised concerns during Monday’s Assembly.

She asked: “How have we managed to reach the same situation again? Whilst the number is thought to be 14 lifts, with a lift sent to Germany for further testing, it will undoubtedly cause concern amongst DVA testing centre employees and the general public.

“Undoubtedly it will cause further delays in our MOT testing. Therefore whilst we await the outcome of testing in Germany to the lifts, it is important that the Minister clearly outlines what he and his Department are doing to curb the looming crisis.

”Lessons should have been learnt from 2019 and it is important that we are honest with the public.”

Garage Wire has asked MAHA Ireland for comment.

1 Comment

  1. Again ? DSA need better equipment

    Reply

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