LOLER Explained
An introduction to the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 and the role of thorough examination.
What is LOLER?
LOLER places duties on people and businesses that own, operate or control lifting equipment used at work. Among other requirements, lifting equipment must be subject to thorough examination at appropriate times by a competent person.
Thorough examination is not servicing
Routine maintenance and servicing help keep equipment working safely, but they are not a substitute for a statutory thorough examination. A thorough examination is a detailed and systematic examination of the equipment and safety-critical parts, with the findings recorded in a report.
Common examination periods
| Equipment | Typical period* |
|---|---|
| Equipment used to lift people | 6 months |
| Lifting accessories | 6 months |
| Other lifting equipment | 12 months |
*Unless examination is carried out in accordance with a written examination scheme drawn up by a competent person, or another LOLER requirement applies. Requirements can depend on circumstances and equipment.
Who is a competent person?
The competent person should have appropriate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience of the lifting equipment to detect defects or weaknesses and assess their significance for continued safe use.