A LOLER inspection is a thorough lift examination carried out by a ‘competent’ or qualified person, as determined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This is also called an insurance inspection. It’s like an MOT for lift equipment to make sure that the Essential Health & Safety components are in good working order and safe to operate. Much like an MOT, it is illegal to use lift equipment without a current LOLER certificate. Your inspector should issue you with your LOLER certificate.
1. LOLER stands for Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
2. What is covered by LOLER Regulations? Commercial property owners and companies that own, or have use of lift equipment are legally obliged to ensure that any machinery is well maintained and in good working order. Passenger Lifts, Good Lifts, Car Lifts, Sissor Lifts, Mobility Lifting Aids, and Dumb Waiters are all covered by LOLER Regulations. Business owners using lift equipment must ensure their responsibilities are covered.
3. How often do you need a LOLER examination? Goods Only Lifts, require 1 inspection annually, but any lift equipment for moving people legal requires 2 inspections per year. Also, if significant changes are made to a lift, thorough checks should be carried out at that time (not as a replacement for LOLER inspections).
4. What’s included in your LOLER Certificate? You will receive a detailed report that will include;
The date of the examination and when the next LOLER inspection should take place.
Details of specific tests completed. The details of the qualified person completing the inspection.
The address of the premises, the equipment examined (including make and serial numbers) and the safe working load for that lift.
The reason for the inspection. Details of any repairs or alterations that need to be made to the equipment and date that any repairs need to be completed by. Any advisory issues that need to be monitored and that could potentially become defects.
5. So why bother with a Lift Maintenance Contract? Why not just wait for your LOLER inspection? LOLER is just one aspect of your responsibility. Lift Maintenance is like servicing a car, it keeps it in tip-top condition, often dealing with any faults before they become major issues and saving you money in the long run. At Elevators Ltd, we have three levels of maintenance – so you can find the perfect fit for your business. Our Comprehensive maintenance package doesn’t just include emergency call-outs, it covers the cost of parts too. Talk to us, about what would work best for your business.
6. Don’t assume it’s someone else’s responsibility. Business owners using lift equipment must ensure their safety is covered. As facilities manager or supervisor, you may be deemed the ‘dutyholder’ and could be legally responsible for inspections and safety. If you are unsure of your responsibilities get in touch with Elevators Ltd for advice.
7. Retain records of LOLER inspections and certificates for two years, if you fail to do this there will be no proof if a Health & Safety officer inspects your premises.
LOLER is essentially about ensuring the safe provision and maintenance of lift equipment. Regular inspections by a qualified person and the issuing of LOLER Certificates are the best demonstration that your duty of care has been fore filled. So you are not just protecting those who use your lifts but protecting your business too. Get in touch today to arrange a LOLER Lift Inspection or Lift Maintenance Contract.
Download the HSE Guidelines for the Examination and Testing of Lifts