Ensuring the safety and reliability of lifting equipment is a legal and moral obligation for employers across the UK. Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), regular inspections—known as thorough examinations—are mandatory. But how often do they need to take place, and what factors influence scheduling? This guide explains everything from standard intervals to maintenance requirements and best practice strategies.
Understanding LOLER Thorough Examinations
A thorough LOLER inspection is a detailed, systematic inspection performed by a legally defined competent person, covering all safety-critical components of lifting equipment. This goes beyond everyday checks by operators (known as “PUWER” checks) and includes internal inspections, functional testing, and, where necessary, non-destructive testing.
After each examination, the competent person issues a written Thorough Examination Report detailing the condition of the equipment and the next due date. Any defects deemed hazardous must be urgently reported, and the equipment taken out of service until fixed.
The Legal Minimum Inspection Intervals
LOLER sets specific minimum intervals for inspections based on the type of equipment:
- Every 6 months for:
- Equipment used to lift people (e.g., passenger hoists, MEWPs)
- All lifting accessories (e.g., slings, shackles, hooks)
- Every 12 months for:
- All other lifting equipment (e.g., cranes, hoists, forklift trucks)
These are the default intervals unless a competent person deems more frequent inspections necessary due to higher risks.
When Else Must a LOLER Inspection Take Place?
LOLER requires thorough examinations at additional critical points:
- Before first use, unless the equipment has a Declaration of Conformity dated within the last 12 months and was not assembled on site.
- After installation or relocation, ensure proper assembly and safe use at the new site.
- Following exceptional circumstances, such as:
- Damage from an accident or misuse
- Prolonged non-use
- Major modifications or repairs
- Exposure to harsh environments may cause accelerated deterioration
These are not optional—they are legal obligations.
Factors That Can Require More Frequent Inspections
While LOLER defines minimum intervals, several factors may justify more frequent checks:
- High usage – Intense or daily operation accelerates wear and tear
- Harsh environments – Corrosive, damp, or abrasive settings increase risk.
- Equipment age and history – Older equipment or persistent faults warrant closer monitoring.
- Operating conditions – Use of heavy loads, unusual angles, or outdoor conditions may affect integrity.
- After defect reports – If recurring issues are found, inspect early to confirm fixes.
A tailored examination scheme developed by the competent person can set shorter intervals, typically monthly or quarterly.
Who Is a “Competent Person”?
A competent person must have suitable theoretical knowledge and practical experience with the equipment being examined. They must be independent; for example, they should not be the same individual who performs routine maintenance.
Competence may come from in-house training or third-party certification, but it must be documented. Employers are responsible for ensuring that competence standards are met and that the person remains impartial.
Pre-Use Checks vs Thorough Examinations
Every piece of lifting equipment requires daily or pre-use inspections, commonly known as PUWER checks. These are quick visual and functional checks to ensure safety before operation. These are not a substitute for LOLER thorough examinations.
Thorough examinations, meanwhile, are scheduled and comprehensive, addressing internal components, structural integrity, and wear that PUWER checks might miss.
Documentation & Legal Record-Keeping
Every thorough examination must be recorded in writing, with key details including:
- Date of inspection
- Equipment ID
- Identity of the competent person
- Defects found
- The date the work must be completed
- Date of re-examination
These records must be kept for at least two years or until the next inspection. Inspectors, authorities, and insurance providers may request access at any time.
Not keeping correct records can lead to enforcement action, substantial fines, or even imprisonment, and may result in insurance claims being voided.
What Happens If Equipment Doesn’t Comply?
If an inspection reveals a serious defect, the competent person must:
- Report it verbally immediately to the “duty holder” (employer or equipment owner)
- Issue a written report to the enforcing authority
- Ensure the equipment is taken out of service until the defect is remedied
Failure to comply with LOLER can lead to enforcement notices, court action, and financial penalties.
Creating an Effective Inspection Plan
1. Conduct a Full Asset Audit
List all lifting equipment and accessories on site, noting age, usage levels, and any past issues.
2. Define Risk-Based Inspection Intervals
Start with legal minimums, then adjust based on usage, environment, and history.
3. Appoint a Competent Person
Ensure independence from maintenance staff, and verify competence through qualifications or experience.
4. Schedule and Record Thorough Examinations
Use diaries or digital tools to track upcoming inspections and generate compliant written reports.
5. Carry Out Pre-Use Checks
Train users to perform daily PUWER checks and encourage logging of any issues.
6. Maintain Clear Records
Store all reports for at least two years, readily accessible for authority requests.
7. Review Inspection Data
If frequent defects are recorded, review whether intervals need to be shortened or equipment replaced.
Conclusion
Adhering to LOLER inspection intervals is more than bureaucracy—it’s about safety, compliance, and ensuring equipment longevity. Regular 6-month inspections for personnel lifts and accessories, alongside annual checks for general lifting machinery, should be your baseline. Additional inspections should be scheduled after installation, relocation, maintenance, or when conditions suggest increased risk.
By setting a clear inspection regimen led by a competent person, backed by thorough record-keeping and prompt remedial work, you ensure:
- Occupational safety and reduced injury risk
- Regulatory compliance and reduced enforcement exposure
- Reliable equipment operation and extended service life
