Lifting operations are a daily part of work across construction, engineering, warehousing and manufacturing. But, without strict controls, they carry high risks for workers, property and the public. That’s where LOLER comes in.
If you’ve ever asked, “What does LOLER stand for in health and safety?” or “What is a LOLER inspection?” you’re not alone. Despite being a legal requirement for decades, many businesses struggle to understand what LOLER means and how to comply with it.
Whether you manage lifting equipment or oversee health and safety compliance, this guide will help you understand your legal obligations and how to meet them.
What Does LOLER Stand For?
LOLER stands for Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations. Introduced in 1998 under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, LOLER sets out the legal requirements for businesses that use lifting equipment.
Under LOLER, all lifting equipment must be:
- Strong and stable enough for its intended use
- Positioned and installed to minimise risks
- Marked with safe working loads (SWL)
- Used by competent, trained personnel
- Subject to regular LOLER inspections by a competent person.
Related Reading: What Is The Health And Safety At Work Act? Everything You Need To Know
Who Does LOLER Apply To?
LOLER applies to all employers and self-employed people who provide lifting equipment for use at work or who control the use of lifting equipment. This includes:
- Construction firms
- Facilities management companies
- Warehouses and logistics providers
- Engineering and manufacturing businesses
- Agricultural businesses
- Events and entertainment production teams.
If your business owns or uses cranes, hoists, forklifts, lifting accessories, or mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), then LOLER almost certainly applies to you.
Even if you hire equipment from a third party, you have legal duties to ensure it’s safe and LOLER-compliant.
Why Does LOLER Matter For Health And Safety?
LOLER isn’t just a regulatory tick-box; it’s a framework designed to protect people from serious injury or death.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), lifting operations are among the leading causes of workplace accidents, particularly in construction and manufacturing. Incidents involving lifting equipment can result in:
- Crushed limbs
- Falls from height
- Fatalities
- Property damage
- Legal prosecutions and fines
By following LOLER, businesses can reduce these risks and demonstrate a proactive approach to workplace safety.
Related Reading: Workplace Accidents Vs Incidents: What Are The Differences?
What Is A LOLER Inspection?
A LOLER inspection, sometimes called a thorough examination, is a systematic and detailed assessment of lifting equipment carried out by a competent person.
What’s Included In A LOLER Inspection?
A LOLER inspection typically checks:
- The condition and integrity of lifting components
- Whether the equipment is suitable for its task
- That safe working loads (SWL) are visible and accurate
- That controls and safety devices are working properly
- Signs of wear, corrosion, deformation or cracks
The aim is to detect any potential faults before they become dangerous.
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What Is A LOLER Certificate?
After a successful inspection, a competent person issues a LOLER certificate, also known as a report of thorough examination. This is your official record that the equipment has passed inspection and is safe to use.
Each LOLER certificate should include the following:
- The name and address of the inspecting organisation
- Details of the lifting equipment examined
- The date of inspection and the next due date
- Any defects found and corrective actions needed
- The name and signature of the competent person.
You must keep LOLER certificates for at least two years and be able to present them if requested by HSE or your clients.
How Often Is A LOLER Inspection Required?
The frequency of LOLER inspections depends on the type of equipment and how it’s used. The general requirements are:
| Equipment Type | Inspection Frequency |
| Lifting equipment for lifting people | Every 6 months |
| Lifting accessories (slings, chains) | Every 6 months |
| Other lifting equipment | Every 12 months |
More frequent inspections may be needed if the equipment is used in harsh environments or under heavy loads.
Who Can Carry Out A LOLER Inspection?
Only a competent person can carry out a LOLER inspection. This is someone with the necessary:
- Practical and theoretical knowledge
- Industry experience
- Independence (they should not be the operator or responsible for the maintenance of the equipment).
Many companies use independent third-party inspection bodies to ensure impartial assessments.
Common LOLER Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Despite LOLER’s long-standing legal status, many businesses still fall short of compliance. Here are some of the most common errors:
1. No Inspection Schedule In Place
Without a formal schedule, equipment may go uninspected, putting workers and compliance at risk. Ensure you create a documented LOLER inspection schedule with reminders and assign responsibilities.
2. Using Equipment Without Visible SWL
If safe working loads aren’t clearly marked, operators may misuse equipment and cause overloading. Always make sure that all lifting equipment is clearly labelled with its SWL.
3. Ignoring Damaged Accessories
Slings, shackles and chains are often overlooked, but they’re just as important as the equipment itself. Include all lifting accessories in your inspection programme and replace damaged ones immediately.
4. Using Unqualified Inspectors
Relying on in-house maintenance teams for LOLER inspections can compromise impartiality. Use qualified external inspectors or ensure your internal team is properly certified and independent.
How LOLER Works With Other Regulations
LOLER works alongside several other key health and safety regulations, including:
- PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations): Covers the safe use of all work equipment.
- The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974: The overarching legislation for workplace safety in the UK.
- CDM Regulations 2015: Particularly relevant to lifting operations in construction.
- Work at Height Regulations 2005: If lifting people or working at height is involved.
Together, these laws create a comprehensive framework for equipment safety and operational risk management.
Related Reading: The Ultimate Guide To PUWER Regulations
Why LOLER Compliance Is Good For Your Business
LOLER compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines or inspections; it’s also about building a safe workplace and protecting your business reputation.
Key benefits include:
- Fewer workplace injuries and claims
- Improved worker morale and retention
- Greater trust with clients and stakeholders
- Easier tendering and prequalification
- Reduced downtime due to equipment failure.
Clients and main contractors increasingly expect evidence of LOLER compliance as part of procurement and supply chain risk management.
How Veriforce CHAS Can Help You Stay Compliant
Veriforce CHAS helps businesses of all sizes demonstrate compliance with UK health and safety laws, including LOLER.
Through Veriforce CHAS certification, your organisation can show that lifting operations are properly assessed and documented, that LOLER inspections are up to date and that workers are appropriately trained and competent.
Certification also helps strengthen your prequalification status for both public and private sector contracts.
Ready to demonstrate your LOLER compliance and strengthen your safety credentials? Contact Veriforce CHAS today to learn how we can support your business.
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