LOLER Inspections (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998)
Thorough Examinations for Lifts, Hoists, Cranes, MEWPs and Lifting Accessories
Lifting equipment must be safe for use at all times, particularly when used to lift people. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) require that lifting equipment is thoroughly examined by a competent person at specified intervals. This helps dutyholders meet their legal obligations and ensures equipment remains safe, reliable and fit for purpose.
Excel Inspection Solutions provides LOLER-compliant Thorough Examinations for a wide range of lifting equipment across the South East and beyond. Our Engineer Surveyors carry out independent inspections and issue clear, detailed reports to support your compliance and operational safety.
What LOLER Covers
LOLER applies to any lifting equipment used at work, including equipment used to lift people. The regulations place duties on employers, landlords, building owners, facilities teams and anyone responsible for lifting equipment in a workplace setting.
LOLER covers:
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Lifting equipment
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Lifting machinery such as lifts, hoists and cranes
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Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)
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Lifting accessories including slings, chains, ropes and eyebolts
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Equipment used to lift people, whether in commercial, industrial or residential buildings
Where relevant, LOLER works alongside PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998), which requires that all work equipment is suitable, maintained and inspected.
LOLER Inspection Intervals
A Thorough Examination is required:
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Every 6 months for lifting equipment used to lift people
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Every 12 months for lifting equipment used to lift goods only
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Or at intervals set out in a Written Scheme of Examination
These intervals must be followed regardless of routine maintenance.
What is a LOLER Thorough Examination?
A Thorough Examination is a systematic and independent inspection carried out by a competent person. It is a legal requirement and must be recorded in a written report.
During a Thorough Examination, we will:
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Carry out visual and functional checks of lifting equipment
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Examine safety devices, controls, alarms and emergency systems
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Assess load-bearing components, ropes, chains and suspension parts
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Review previous inspection reports and maintenance records
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Identify any defects affecting safety or compliance
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Provide a digital LOLER report with photographic evidence
Where serious defects are found, we will advise that equipment is taken out of service until rectified.
Types of Equipment We Inspect Under LOLER
Our Engineer Surveyors provide Thorough Examinations across a full range of lifting equipment, including:
Passenger Lifts
Lifts in commercial, residential, hospitality, healthcare and public buildings.
Goods Lifts and Service Lifts
Including warehouse lifts, commercial lifting platforms and service lifts.
Platform Lifts and Step Lifts
Often installed in residential properties, schools, public buildings and workplaces.
Home Lifts and Domestic Installations
Ensuring continued safety and compliance for domestic lifting equipment.
Dumbwaiters and Kitchen Lifts
Used for transporting food, materials and light goods.
Hoists and Lifting Accessories
Including patient hoists, ceiling track hoists, mobile hoists, slings, chains and ropes.
Cranes and Lifting Machinery
Tower cranes, gantry cranes, jib cranes and lifting gear.
MEWPs, Scissor Lifts and Cherry Pickers
Where lifting operations require an elevated working platform.
Each inspection is carried out in accordance with LOLER and supported by a clear written report.
Why LOLER Inspections Matter
Regular Thorough Examinations help:
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Ensure compliance with LOLER and PUWER
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Reduce risks to users and dutyholders
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Prevent breakdowns and unplanned downtime
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Support insurance and statutory documentation
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Maintain safe working environments
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Provide confidence in everyday lift usage
Even small faults can develop into serious hazards. Scheduled inspections help maintain safety and reliability throughout the equipment’s life.
LOLER Reports and Certification
Following each inspection, we provide a digital LOLER report that includes:
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Equipment details and identification
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Examination date and interval
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Summary of checks carried out
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Any defects affecting safety
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Recommendations for remedial action
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Photographs where relevant
This report forms part of your statutory safety documentation and should be retained for future reference.
Maintenance Audits and Condition Surveys
Alongside statutory LOLER inspections, we offer detailed lift and equipment audits. These assessments provide:
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Full system condition reviews
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Insights into wear and component lifespan
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Future maintenance forecasts
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Upgrade and repair recommendations
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Asset management support
These services are ideal for property managers, housing providers and organisations responsible for multiple lifts.
Why Choose Excel Inspection Solutions?
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Independent, fully qualified Engineer Surveyors
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LOLER and PUWER compliant inspections
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Clear, digital reporting
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Flexible scheduling and multi-site support
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UK-wide coverage through our engineer network
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Trusted by FM teams, councils, housing associations and commercial clients
We tailor each inspection to suit your equipment type, usage and statutory duties.
LOLER FAQs
How often does lifting equipment need inspecting?
Every 6 months for equipment lifting people, and every 12 months for equipment lifting goods only.
Do slings and lifting accessories fall under LOLER?
Yes. Slings, chains and other lifting accessories must also be examined at prescribed intervals.
Do MEWPs need LOLER inspections?
Yes. MEWPs require Thorough Examination under LOLER every 6 months when used to lift people.
What is a Thorough Examination?
A legally required inspection carried out by a competent person to assess the safety of lifting equipment.
Can you inspect lifting equipment in domestic properties?
Yes. We inspect home lifts and domestic platform lifts to ensure continued safety.
Other Services
Looking for support with more than just LOLER inspections? Excel Inspection Solutions provides a full range of statutory inspection services across multiple equipment types — from mobile plant and pressure systems to cranes and work at height equipment.