http://www.hse.gov.uk/safetybulletin...icle-lifts.htm
http://www.hse.gov.uk/mvr/topics/fallofflifts.htm
http://bullworthy.co.uk/blog/hse-cra...t-lift-safety/
For a brief time I used to sell garage equipment and quality stuff such as Corghi was a hard sell. Everyone wanted all the cheap crud.
It may be that a cheapie is ok for low volume use, I don't know.
I’m sure I was told that 2 post lifts were not for major unit removal (engine /gearbox etc) but most of the motor trade has been doing it for ever. I would certainly never take such equipment for granted, I would inspect it regularly. However I am not an expert by any means.