Do I need to have LOLER examinations carried out on my lift?

The short answer is “almost certainly”.

LOLER applies to all businesses regardless of size. This is why LOLER regulations are incredibly important to understand and comply. We at Genesis will explain what is involved and its importance to all business owners.

What is LOLER?

LOLER, or the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, is a set of regulations that covers the use of lifting equipment in the UK. The purpose of LOLER is to ensure that lifting equipment is used safely and that any risks are properly managed. LOLER applies to all types of lifting equipment, including cranes, hoists, and lifting tools like forklifts.

The regulation requires that all lifting equipment is regularly inspected and that any defects are repaired or rectified immediately. Additionally, it sets out guidelines for the use of lifting equipment, including minimum operator training requirements. Employers must also ensure that lifting equipment is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

LOLER is an important piece of legislation that helps to keep workers safe and protects them from potential harm. If you are responsible for the use of lifting equipment, planning its use should be routine and all risks of its use should be taken into account.

What are the LOLER regulations?

• Records need to be readily available of inspections and any maintenance work
• All lifts and lifting equipment should be thoroughly examined by a competent individual
• Damage, faults, and defects should be reported immediately and fixed in a reasonable period of time
• LOLER inspections must occur every 6 months for passenger lifts and every 12 months for goods only lifts to ensure the safety of the equipment
• It is the duty of the lift owner to ensure LOLER are carried out and are safe for use

What if I do not follow LOLER?

It is crucial as a business owner to make sure you follow LOLER. Otherwise, there can be some serious penalties:

Injury

Not servicing or maintaining your lifts is a serious breach of health and safety and can lead to serious injury or loss of life. Such negligence is avoidable, for example you can ensure your lift is cared for correctly by way of a periodical maintenance agreement (service contract) and ensuring the correct periodical thorough examination is completed and actioned accordingly.

Fines and Imprisonment

Businesses in the past have been negligent by not following LOLER. In 2016 a coach company was fined £90,000 due to failure to comply with regulations. The equipment that was used had not had regular and thorough examinations which meant that the equipment was unsafe for use due to its deterioration. Other negligence has led to the loss of life and further imprisonment for the duty holder

If you wish to learn more about ensuring your lift is compliant with LOLER or require a service for your lifts, contact us today and let us show you how we can help your business.