How to Conduct a LOLER Inspection

From manufacturing to care, there are many businesses that use lifting as part of their daily practices. One of the most important laws that covers this technique is the ‘Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)’.

LOLER places health and safety duties on people who own, operate, or have control over lifting equipment. Before you decide to conduct any form of heavy lifting, it’s crucial to take the right steps. Employers must comply with LOLER requirements – ensuring safe working practices, as well as minimising risks of injury or damage to people.

Now that’s covered, let’s take a look at how to conduct a LOLER inspection within your workplace:

Select the right equipment

A big part of your lifting inspection involves equipment. It’s important to use the right equipment for lifting jobs and operations. It might seem like an obvious statement, but using the wrong device can lead to serious injuries.

All lifting equipment, attachments, and accessories must be of adequate strength and stability. They should also be installed and positioned properly according to industry and manufacturing standards.

Employers should implement reasonable measures to prevent damage or accidents. For example, using the correct care home hoists to lift elderly people with mobility issues.

Ensure equipment has safety markings

Lifting equipment and attachments must have clear markings that indicate their ‘safe working loads’ (SWL). Employers must ensure loads are moved with equipment that possess suitable markings.

Some lifting accessories can be used to help lift heavier loads safely. They’re also useful with load configuration (placing items in different positions). However, such operations must comply with both legislative and manufacturing standards.

Lifting equipment can also be used to raise or lower people. However, only equipment with clear indications and proper designs should be used to move people.

Conduct examinations on equipment

Employers are legally obliged to conduct LOLER inspections. Lifting equipment should be checked at least every six months, especially if it’s used to lift or lower people. These examinations should be conducted:

• Before using equipment for the first time. (This is unless there’s a valid Declaration of Conformity made less than 12 months prior).
• When it’s being installed or moved to another location.
• When it’s been exposed to conditions resulting in deterioration.

Employers must document all findings in writing and report them to the appropriate people or bodies. For example, you should report accidents related to lifting to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Plan out operations

Before starting any tasks involving lifting, employers must conduct proper plans. Only a competent person with relevant knowledge, training, and qualifications for the task should take charge of this.

This person also has responsibility for supervising operations, making sure lifting tasks are done safely and properly. They’ll oversee risk assessments, keep records, report accidents, and contact safety authorities.

A competent person could be a fellow employee or even the employer themselves (so long as they have the right qualifications). However, you can hire an external health and safety professional who’s paid to follow through with such duties.

Provide proper training

Before any employee is allowed to use lift equipment, it’s important they know how to do so. This applies to tasks that involve manual handling, as well as lifting operations.

These employees should receive LOLER training on lifting equipment and accessories. Training can be presented by your competent employees or external health and safety professionals. After passing, they may receive a LOLER certificate as evidence for their lifting qualifications.

Having the right training doesn’t just protect individuals using equipment. It also protects fellow colleagues, as well as anyone connected to your operation (like the public). Training also minimises risk to injury – saving you time, money, and other losses.

Keep reports and documents

Employers must document their examination findings in a ‘Thorough Examination Report’. These reports assess whether the regulations are being followed, as well as outline any defects or issues related to your equipment.

Another document that employers must hold is an EC Declaration of Conformity. This is a written statement that confirms your equipment meets safety standards stating it’s safe to use.

Employers should always keep a record of any inspections or tests conducted between the last one. Whilst LOLER requires examinations every 6-12 months, you may need to complete inspections outlined by the manufacturer or the business.

Get expert advice on LOLER inspections with Peninsula

When it comes to health and safety, employers must comply with LOLER and all relevant legislations. These regulations provide the best practices when it comes to lifting equipment – promoting safe working standards for all.

Peninsula is here to provide expert advice on LOLER inspections. We offer 24-hour H&S advice –ensuring your lifting operations are safe, proper, and compliant with the law.

Want to find out more? Contact us on 0800 028 2420 and book a free consultation with one of our Construction Health and Safety consultants today.