Lifting Operations & LOLER Inspections Explained

Lifting operations move heavy loads over people and property, so the margin for error is small. LOLER — the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations — sets out how lifting gear must be examined and used.

What LOLER covers

Any equipment used for lifting or lowering loads, plus the accessories: cranes, hoists, telehandlers, slings, chains, shackles, and lifting points. It applies whether you own the gear or hire it in.

Thorough examination intervals

• Lifting accessories — every 6 months
• Equipment that lifts people — every 6 months
• Other lifting equipment — every 12 months
• Plus examination after installation or any event affecting safety

These are carried out by a competent person, with a written report of thorough examination kept on record.

Plan every lift

A lift plan should cover the load weight, the equipment and its rating, ground conditions, exclusion zones, and the appointed person and slinger/signaller. Never improvise a lift.

Pre-use checks matter too

Thorough examinations don't replace daily pre-use checks. Operators should inspect slings, hooks, and equipment before each use and report defects immediately. SiteAudit lets you log pre-use lifting checks and keep examination records and defects together, so nothing gets used past its date.