Do Passenger Lifts Require LOLER Inspection?

Passenger lifts are a common feature in commercial and residential buildings, but there is often confusion around which regulations apply to their inspection.

Dutyholders frequently ask whether passenger lifts fall under LOLER and what statutory inspection is required.

In most cases, passenger lift LOLER inspection is a legal requirement, but it must be understood alongside other relevant legislation and inspection regimes.

What is classed as a passenger lift?

A passenger lift is a permanently installed lifting appliance designed to carry people between levels within a building. This includes:

• Passenger lifts in commercial buildings

• Passenger lifts in residential blocks

• Combined passenger and goods lifts

Passenger lifts are designed specifically to lift people, which places them within the scope of certain statutory inspection requirements.

Are passenger lifts covered by LOLER inspection?

Yes. Passenger lifts are classed as lifting equipment under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).

Because they are used to lift people, passenger lifts are subject to the most stringent inspection requirements under LOLER. HSE guidance confirms that lifts used at work fall within the scope of LOLER.

What does LOLER require for passenger lifts?

Under LOLER, passenger lifts must:

• Be suitable for their intended use

• Be properly installed and maintained

• Be operated safely

• Undergo thorough examination by a competent person

The statutory requirement for a thorough examination is central to passenger lift compliance.

How often do passenger lifts require LOLER inspection?

In most cases, a passenger lift LOLER inspection is required:

• At least every 6 months, where the lift is used to carry people

Alternatively, inspection frequency may be set out in a written scheme of examination produced by a competent person.

In addition to periodic inspections, a thorough examination is also required:

• After installation or major alteration

• After exceptional circumstances such as damage or failure

• Where safety may be affected

Is lift maintenance the same as LOLER inspection?

No. Maintenance and inspection are separate activities.

• Maintenance focuses on keeping the lift operating correctly

• A LOLER thorough examination assesses whether the lift is safe to continue in use

Routine servicing or maintenance does not replace the legal requirement for LOLER inspection.

Are other regulations relevant to passenger lifts?

Yes. Passenger lifts are also subject to other legislation, including:

• PUWER, which covers safe use and maintenance of work equipment

• Building safety legislation, depending on the premises and use

LOLER focuses specifically on lifting risks and statutory inspection, while other regulations address wider safety management.

Who is responsible for ensuring inspection takes place?

Responsibility for passenger lift LOLER inspection rests with the dutyholder. This may be:

• A building owner

• A facilities management company

• An employer

• A managing agent

Dutyholders must ensure inspections are carried out at the correct intervals and that records are retained.

Summary

In summary:

• Passenger lifts are lifting equipment under LOLER

• Passenger lifts used to carry people typically require inspection every six months

• A written scheme of examination may define inspection intervals

• Maintenance does not replace statutory inspection

• Dutyholders are responsible for compliance

Understanding inspection requirements is essential for the safe and compliant operation of passenger lifts.