The GA1 form Ireland uses for lifting equipment is the HSA Report of Thorough Examination. If you own or operate MEWPs, hoists, telehandlers, or lifting accessories, this is the document an inspector will ask to see. This post explains what the GA1 form covers, who completes it, how often, and what happens if you do not have one.
What Is the GA1 Form in Ireland?
Many people confuse the GA1 with a certificate. However, the GA1 is a report, not a certificate. It records the result of a thorough examination carried out by a competent person. The requirement comes from the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007. Specifically, the HSA produced the GA1 form to record the information required under Schedule 1 Part E of those Regulations.
What Does the GA1 Record?
The GA1 records the equipment details, the safe working load, the examination result, and any defects found. It also states when the next thorough examination is due. A competent person completes and signs the form. As a result, the GA1 gives you written proof that your lifting equipment was examined and safe to use on that date.
How Often Do You Need a GA1?
How often you need a GA1 depends on the equipment. Equipment that lifts people, such as MEWPs and cherry pickers, needs a thorough examination at least every 6 months. Lifting accessories, such as chains and slings, also need examination every 6 months. Other lifting equipment generally needs examination every 12 months. Additionally, equipment needs a fresh examination after substantial alteration or repair. A competent person should also examine equipment after any incident that could affect its safety.
GA1 vs GA2: Thorough Examination vs Weekly Checks
The GA1 is not the only record lifting equipment needs. On construction sites, the HSA GA2 form records the weekly examination of lifting equipment under the same Regulations. Additionally, operators should carry out a pre-use check before each shift. However, these checks are your team's responsibility between thorough examinations. They do not replace the GA1. Think of it this way: the GA1 is the periodic deep examination by a competent person, while the GA2 and pre-use checks keep the equipment safe day to day.
GA1 Form vs GA3 Form in Ireland
The GA1 and GA3 forms cover different equipment, so mixing them up is a common mistake. The GA1 covers lifting equipment under the thorough examination requirements. In contrast, the GA3 covers work equipment used at height, such as ladders and harnesses, under Regulation 119. Therefore, a MEWP needs a GA1 report, while the harness worn in the basket needs a GA3 form. Our guide to the GA3 form in Ireland explains that side in full.
What Happens Without a Current GA1?
Without a current GA1, you have no proof your lifting equipment is safe. Consequently, an HSA inspector can take enforcement action, and your insurer can refuse a claim after an incident. Main contractors also routinely refuse plant onto site without a current GA1 report. Keeping the reports on file therefore protects your business as much as your people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GA1 form a certificate?
No, the GA1 is a report of thorough examination rather than a certificate, so always ask your inspector for a GA1 report when your lifting equipment is examined.
Who can complete the GA1 form in Ireland?
A competent person must carry out the thorough examination and sign the GA1, and Procheck issues the GA1 report on completion of every MEWP inspection.
How do I book a thorough examination?
We are based in County Mayo and inspect MEWPs nationwide, so contact Procheck to request a quote.
External reference: HSA GA1 Report of Thorough Examination form.