01
Match the document to the physical item
Check the equipment description, unique ID, serial number where available and marked capacity against the item in front of you. Confirm the location or asset owner where relevant. For a multi-item report, find the correct line, not merely a familiar description. Resolve unreadable markings, duplicate IDs or a mismatched capacity with the issuer rather than assigning the record to a similar item.
02
Read what was actually examined or tested
Look for the work date, scope, equipment configuration and basis for assessment. If a test was performed, the report should identify the relevant test conditions and result. Where no load test was included, do not infer one from the word certificate. A test report alone does not establish all the design, manufacturing or operating evidence that an application may need.
03
Read restrictions before the headline result
Review defects, excluded areas, incomplete checks and any conditions on use. Record required repairs, re-examination and the next examination requirement where applicable. If the result is unclear, ask what decision it supports. A date on the front page does not cancel a restriction elsewhere, and a favourable result does not cover damage that occurs after the examination.
04
Keep an actionable record, not an isolated PDF
Confirm the issuer, report reference and responsible authorisation, then retain the complete document and attachments against the equipment register. Assign owners to outstanding actions and record their closure. Ask the issuer for a corrected or clarified report if necessary; do not edit technical findings yourself. Scaftech can scope Inspection, Load Testing & Certification around your equipment list and required handover format.
Keep this checklist
Review a certificate or report
- Physical item, unique identity and capacity match.
- Document purpose, work date and assessed configuration are clear.
- Results, limitations and corrective actions are readable.
- Issuer, report reference and authorisation are present.
- Complete record is linked to the register and follow-up owner.
