What is LOLER? The lifting equipment regulations explained
If your work involves lifting — cranes, hoists, forklifts, lifts, slings — LOLER applies on top of your general work-equipment duties. Here is what it covers and what it requires.
What LOLER is
LOLER is the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. In Great Britain it places duties on employers and those who control lifting equipment to make sure lifting is safe. In Northern Ireland the equivalent duties are set by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999. LOLER works alongside PUWER, which covers work equipment generally.
Lifting equipment and lifting accessories
LOLER covers lifting equipment — work equipment used at work for lifting or lowering loads (cranes, hoists, forklifts, tail-lifts, passenger and goods lifts, MEWPs) — and lifting accessories, the components that connect the load to the equipment (chains, slings, eyebolts, shackles).
The main duties
Strong, stable and marked. Lifting equipment must be strong and stable enough for the load, and clearly marked with its safe working load (and accessories marked so their limits are known).
Positioned and installed to minimise risk. It must be positioned or installed so the risk of the load or equipment striking someone, or of the load drifting, falling or being released unintentionally, is as low as reasonably practicable.
Planned and supervised by a competent person. Lifting operations must be properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised, and carried out safely.
Thorough examination and inspection. Lifting equipment must be thoroughly examined by a competent person at the required intervals, with a report of thorough examination kept. This is the duty people most associate with LOLER — see LOLER thorough examination explained.
Thorough examination — the frequencies
At least every 6 months for lifting equipment used to lift people and for lifting accessories; at least every 12 months for other lifting equipment; or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person — plus after exceptional circumstances that could affect safety.
Never miss a thorough examination
Complys holds your lifting-equipment and accessory register, tracks the 6- and 12-monthly examination due dates, and keeps the reports and evidence.
LOLER compliance software →FAQs
What does LOLER stand for?
LOLER is the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. It applies in Great Britain; Northern Ireland has its own equivalent, the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999.
What counts as lifting equipment?
Work equipment used for lifting or lowering loads, plus the accessories used to attach, anchor or support a load — cranes, hoists, forklifts, vehicle tail-lifts, passenger and goods lifts, mobile elevating work platforms, and accessories such as chains, slings, eyebolts and shackles. Note that some equipment used to move people or goods is not classed as lifting equipment for LOLER purposes, so check the specific position for unusual equipment.
How often does lifting equipment need thorough examination?
At least every 6 months for lifting equipment used to lift people and for lifting accessories; at least every 12 months for other lifting equipment; or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person — and after exceptional circumstances. See our thorough examination guide.
Related: what is PUWER, PUWER vs LOLER, and LOLER thorough examination explained. General information, not legal advice.