LOLER Inspections and Testing of Plant and Lifting Equipment

What is thorough examination? 

A thorough examination is a systematic and detailed examination of the lifting equipment by a competent person to detect any defects that are, or might become, dangerous.

How often must lifting equipment and accessories be thoroughly examined? 

You must have lifting equipment thoroughly examined: 

Before using it for the first time – unless the equipment has an EC Declaration of Conformity less than one year old and was not assembled on site. If it was assembled on site, it must be examined by a competent person to establish the assembly was correct and safe. eg a platform lift installed in a building.

After assembly and before use at each location for equipment that requires assembly or installation before use. eg tower cranes; 

Regularly in service if the equipment is exposed to conditions causing deterioration that is likely to result in dangerous situations. If this applies to your equipment you have a choice. 

You can arrange for the thorough examination to be carried out: 

At regular intervals (either at least every 6 months or 12 months depending on whether the lifting equipment is for lifting people or not); or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person.

Accessories for lifting must be thoroughly examined either at least every 6 months or in accordance with an examination scheme. 

For more information please follow the link to HSE' website or contact us.