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LOLER Inspection Checklist

UK LOLER & PUWER Compliance Guide

Last updated: 2026-03-31

What a LOLER thorough examination checks, from structural integrity to safety devices, and what the competent person looks for.

LOLER Inspection Checklist: What Gets Checked During a Thorough Examination

A thorough examination under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) is a detailed, independent inspection of lifting equipment carried out by a competent person. It is not the same as routine maintenance or a pre-use check. The purpose is to identify defects that could lead to dangerous failure before they cause harm.

This checklist outlines the key areas assessed during a LOLER thorough examination.

Structural Integrity

The competent person inspects all load-bearing structural components for signs of:

  • Cracking, distortion, or deformation of the main frame, boom, or mast
  • Corrosion affecting structural strength
  • Weld deterioration or joint failure
  • Damage from impact, overloading, or misuse
  • Foundation fixings and anchor bolt integrity (for fixed equipment)

Structural checks are the foundation of every thorough examination. Hidden fatigue in a boom weld or a corroded anchor bolt can lead to catastrophic collapse without warning.

Wire Ropes, Chains, and Slings

Lifting accessories are among the most failure-prone components. The examination checks:

  • Wire rope condition — broken strands, birdcaging, corrosion, kinking
  • Chain link elongation and wear against manufacturer tolerances
  • Sling condition — fraying, cuts, abrasion, heat damage
  • Correct identification markings and SWL (Safe Working Load) labels
  • Termination fittings — ferrules, thimbles, and eye splices

Under LOLER, lifting accessories such as slings, shackles, and eyebolts must be examined at least every 6 months, regardless of whether the equipment they attach to is on a 12-month cycle.

Safety Devices and Controls

Every safety device on the equipment must be tested:

  • Emergency stop buttons and circuits
  • Overload protection and load moment indicators
  • Limit switches (upper, lower, travel)
  • Anti-two-block devices (on cranes)
  • Tilt sensors and stability systems
  • Door interlocks (on lifts)
  • Overspeed governors and safety gear (on lifts)
  • Emergency lowering mechanisms (on MEWPs)

A safety device that fails to activate during normal operation may not be detectable through visual inspection alone. The competent person must functionally test these systems.

Hydraulic and Mechanical Systems

  • Hydraulic ram seals — checking for leaks, creep, or slow descent
  • Hose condition — chafing, cracking, bulging
  • Braking systems — holding capacity under load
  • Locking mechanisms — automatic engagement and holding ability
  • Gears, bearings, and slew rings — wear within tolerance

Markings and Documentation

  • SWL or WLL markings legible and accurate
  • Equipment identification (serial number, manufacturer plate)
  • Previous examination reports available for review
  • Any defect notices from previous examinations have been addressed

What Happens After the Examination

The competent person must produce a written report after every thorough examination. This report must:

  • State whether the equipment is safe for continued use
  • Identify any defects found and their severity
  • Specify when the next examination is due
  • Be retained by the duty holder for inspection by the HSE

If an immediate danger is identified, the competent person must notify the duty holder immediately. Under LOLER Regulation 10, certain defects must also be reported directly to the HSE.

Our Engineer Surveyors carry out LOLER thorough examinations across all equipment types:

We cover Kent, London, and Essex, with nationwide coverage available.

Related inspections and services

These regulations apply across the UK including Kent, London and Essex where LOLER compliance is essential.

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