A Guide to LOLER and Lifting Equipment

Stay ahead in 2024 with our detailed guide on LOLER lifting equipment guidelines, ensuring safety and compliance in your operations.

Understanding LOLER

The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998 are crucial for ensuring the safe use of lifting equipment in the workplace. It is essential to stay updated with any changes or clarifications to these regulations. LOLER requires that all lifting operations involving lifting equipment are properly planned, supervised, and carried out in a safe manner by competent people.

Companies should pay particular attention to any updates from regulatory bodies that may affect compliance. Regularly reviewing these regulations and ensuring that all lifting equipment and procedures meet the latest standards is vital for both safety and legal compliance.

Lifting Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance of lifting equipment are fundamental aspects of LOLER compliance. A thorough examination of lifting equipment, which must be conducted by a competent person, is similar to those mandated by earlier sector-specific laws like the Factories Act 1961. The regulation is divided into seven parts. Parts 1–4 outline the main requirements for the thorough examination of lifting equipment:

• before it is first put into service;
• after installation or reassembly;
• when exposed to conditions that cause deterioration; AND
• the need for evidence of the last examination when the equipment is used outside the organisation.

Periodic thorough examinations by a competent person must be documented to provide a clear record of the equipment's condition and confirm it is in a safe condition to use. This must be carried out in accordance with the regulations as follows:

• in the case of lifting equipment for lifting persons or an accessory for lifting, at least every 6 months;
• in the case of other lifting equipment, at least every 12 months; or
• in either case, in accordance with an examination scheme; and
• each time that exceptional circumstances which are liable to jeopardise the safety of the lifting equipment have occurred; and

• if appropriate for the purpose, is inspected by a competent person at suitable intervals between thorough examinations, to ensure that health and safety conditions are maintained and that any deterioration can be detected and remedied in good time. (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998: Open learning guidance, www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/loler.pdf)

Companies should establish a robust maintenance schedule that aligns with the manufacturer's recommendations and the specific conditions under which the equipment is used. Best practices include conducting thorough pre-use checks, scheduled maintenance, and proactive maintenance can prevent equipment failure and ensure operational efficiency and safety.

Training and Competence

Ensuring that your team is adequately trained and competent is a cornerstone of LOLER compliance. Training should cover the safe operation of lifting equipment, understanding of load limits, and identifying potential hazards. It is also crucial to provide refresher courses to keep skills and knowledge up-to-date.

Competence is not only about having the necessary skills but also about having the right attitude towards safety. Encouraging a safety-first culture where employees feel responsible for their own safety and that of their colleagues is essential for effective compliance. 

Our LOLER Training course will guide you through the essential requirements for achieving compliance with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. This straightforward and easy-to-follow course is divided into five sections: defining LOLER, selecting suitable equipment, setting up your equipment, planning operations, and maintaining the equipment and will award you a personal certificate upon completion..

You may also be interested in our PUWER Training.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

One common pitfall in LOLER compliance is the failure to properly document inspections and maintenance. Without proper records, it is difficult to prove that the equipment has been safely maintained. Another common issue is inadequate risk assessment and lifting plans before lifting operations, which can lead to accidents and injuries.

To avoid these pitfalls, companies should implement a management system and ensure that risk assessments are conducted, reviewed regularly and never forgotten. Regular training and audits can also help identify and rectify potential issues before they become serious problems.

Future Trends in Lifting Equipment Safety and Compliance

As technology advances, new trends in lifting equipment safety and compliance are emerging. One such trend is the increased use of digital tools and IoT (Internet of Things) for monitoring equipment performance in real-time. These technologies can provide valuable data that helps predict maintenance needs and prevent equipment failures.

Another trend is the development of more ergonomic and user-friendly equipment that reduces the risk of operator error and injury. Staying informed about these trends and integrating new technologies into your safety strategy can enhance compliance and operational efficiency.

If you're ready to improve your workplace safety and compliance, get in touch with our team of experts today – we're here to help create a safer, more efficient environment for everyone.