Platform Lift Inspections
Independent Thorough Examinations for Platform and Step Lifts
latform lifts used at work or provided for public access must be safe, suitable and properly maintained at all times. Where equipment is used to lift or lower people, the law requires regular independent inspection to ensure continued safety and legal compliance.
Excel Inspection Solutions provides statutory platform lift inspections in accordance with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and, where applicable, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). Our Engineer Surveyors carry out independent Thorough Examinations of platform lifts across a wide range of environments, supporting dutyholders with clear reporting and practical compliance advice.
We work with facilities managers, managing agents, housing providers, education settings, healthcare organisations and public sector bodies across the South East and nationwide.
This page provides detailed information on our independent platform lift inspection services. An overview of accessibility related lifting equipment inspections is available on our Disabled Access Lift Inspections page.
What Is a Platform Lift?
A platform lift is a lifting appliance designed to move people, often including wheelchair users, between levels over a short vertical distance. Platform lifts are commonly installed where a full passenger lift is not required or where space is limited.
Platform lifts may be installed in:
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Commercial buildings and workplaces
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Residential apartment blocks
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Schools, colleges and universities
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Hospitals and healthcare facilities
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Retail and leisure premises
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Public buildings and transport facilities
Where platform lifts are used at work or provided for public access, they are classed as lifting equipment under LOLER.
Platform Lift Regulations and Compliance
LOLER Platform Lift Inspections
Platform lifts used to carry people fall under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. LOLER places legal duties on employers, landlords, building owners and dutyholders responsible for lift safety.
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Under LOLER, platform lifts must be:
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Strong and stable enough for their intended use
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Installed and positioned safely
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Thoroughly examined at prescribed intervals
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Inspected by a competent and independent person
Our inspections are carried out fully in line with LOLER inspection requirements and supported by detailed written reports.
PUWER Requirements
Platform lifts are also subject to PUWER where applicable. PUWER requires that work equipment is:
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Suitable for the task
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Properly maintained
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Inspected where safety depends on installation or condition
In practice, platform lifts are commonly subject to both LOLER and PUWER inspections.
Platform Lift Inspection Intervals
Platform lifts must undergo a Thorough Examination:
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Every 6 months when used to lift people
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At intervals specified within a Written Scheme of Examination, where applicable
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Following significant repairs, alterations or damage
Routine servicing does not replace the requirement for statutory inspection.
What Is a Platform Lift Thorough Examination?
A Thorough Examination is a detailed, systematic and independent inspection carried out by a competent person. It is a legal requirement and must be recorded in a written report.
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During a platform lift inspection, our Engineer Surveyors will:
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Carry out visual and functional checks
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Examine safety devices, controls and emergency systems
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Assess platforms, barriers, doors and gates
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Inspect lifting mechanisms, fixings and load bearing components
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Review previous inspection reports and maintenance records
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Identify defects that could affect user safety
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Provide a clear digital report with photographic evidence
Where serious defects are identified, we will advise that the platform lift is removed from service until remedial action is completed.
Types of Platform Lifts We Inspect
Our Engineer Surveyors carry out Thorough Examinations on a wide range of platform lift installations, including:
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Vertical platform lifts
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Inclined platform lifts
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Low rise platform lifts
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Step lifts
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Internal platform lifts
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External platform lifts
Where platform lifts are designed primarily for wheelchair users, inspection guidance may overlap with Wheelchair Lift Inspections.
Why Platform Lift Inspections Matter
Regular platform lift inspections help to:
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Meet statutory obligations under LOLER and PUWER
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Protect users and building occupants
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Support safe and reliable access between levels
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Reduce the risk of accidents and equipment failure
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Support insurance and audit requirements
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Maintain compliance in public and workplace environments
Platform lifts are often installed as accessibility solutions and must remain safe and reliable for all users.
Platform Lift Inspection Reports and Documentation
Following each inspection, we issue a digital report that includes:
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Lift identification and location details
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Date of examination and next due date
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Summary of checks carried out
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Details of any defects affecting safety
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Recommendations for remedial action
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Photographic evidence where applicable
These reports form part of your statutory safety records and should be retained for compliance and audit purposes.
Maintenance Audits and Condition Surveys
In addition to statutory inspections, we offer condition surveys and maintenance audits for platform lifts. These services provide:
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Independent assessment of lift condition
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Identification of wear and component lifespan
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Review of maintenance effectiveness
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Support for long term asset planning
These services are particularly beneficial for organisations managing multiple platform lifts across several sites.
Why Choose Excel Inspection Solutions?
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Independent and impartial Engineer Surveyors
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LOLER and PUWER compliant platform lift inspections
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Clear, practical digital reporting
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Flexible scheduling across single or multiple sites
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Nationwide coverage through our inspection network
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Trusted by housing providers, facilities teams and public sector organisations
Platform Lift Inspection FAQs
How often do platform lifts need inspecting?
Platform lifts used to lift people must undergo a Thorough Examination every 6 months unless a Written Scheme specifies otherwise.
Are platform lifts covered by LOLER?
Yes. Where used at work or provided for public access, platform lifts are classed as lifting equipment under LOLER.
Is a platform lift inspection the same as servicing?
No. A Thorough Examination is a statutory inspection carried out independently of routine maintenance.
Do platform lifts in residential buildings require inspection?
Yes. Platform lifts in residential buildings must be inspected where they are provided for use at work or by residents.