Loler Inspection

Carried out within 6 month intervals by a competent person, providing a written report and certification on completion.

What is a ‘thorough examination’ under LOLER?

This is a systematic and detailed examination of the equipment and safety-critical parts, carried out at specified intervals by a competent person who must then complete a written report. This report must contain the information required by LOLER Schedule 1, including:

  • the examination date
  • the date when the next thorough examination is due
  • any defects found which are (or could potentially become) a danger to people

Where serious defects are identified, the competent person carrying out the examination must immediately report this verbally to the dutyholder. This should then be followed by the written report, a copy of which must also be sent to the relevant enforcing authority.

When should thorough examinations be carried out?

In order to verify that lifting equipment and accessories remain safe for use, and to detect and remedy any deterioration in good time, thorough examinations are required throughout the lifetime of the equipment, including examinations:

  • before use for the first time – unless the equipment has a Declaration of Conformity less than one year old and the equipment was not assembled on site. If it was assembled on site, it must be examined by a competent person to ensure that the assembly (eg a platform lift installed in a building) was completed correctly and safely
  • after assembly and before use at each location – for equipment that requires assembly or installation before use, eg tower cranes
  • regularly, while in service – if the equipment is exposed to conditions that cause deterioration which is likely to result in dangerous situations. Most lifting equipment will be subject to wear and tear and so will need regular in-service examination. Some may be exposed to significant environmental conditions which may cause further deterioration. You have a choice:
    • arrange for thorough examination to be carried out at the intervals specified by LOLER (every 6 or 12 months, depending on the equipment – see below), or
    • conduct examinations in accordance with an examination scheme, drawn up by a competent person
  • following exceptional circumstances – liable to jeopardise the safety of lifting equipment, which may include:
    • damage or failure
    • being out of use for long periods
    • major changes, which are likely to affect the equipment’s integrity (eg modifications, or replacement / repair of critical parts)
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What are the specified intervals for regular thorough examinations?

Unless there is an ‘examination scheme’ specifying other intervals, thorough examinations should be conducted every:

  • 6 months, for lifting equipment and any associated accessories used to lift people
  • 6 months, for all lifting accessories
  • 12 months, for all other lifting equipment

 

What is covered by a thorough examination?

This depends on the professional judgement of the competent person undertaking the examination, but needs to include all matters which affect the safety of the lifting equipment, including likely deterioration with time.

For most common lifting equipment and accessories, there are industry standard procedures and criteria which a competent person would follow when undertaking thorough examinations and making judgements as to the continued safety of the equipment. Methods used include:

  • visual examination and functional checks
  • measurements of wear
  • (in some cases) traditional NDT (non-destructive testing) and load testing

Some disassembly or internal examination of parts may also be required.

Where an examination scheme has been drawn up, this should identify and specify:

  • the parts to be thoroughly examined
  • the methods of examination and testing
  • the intervals for examination (and testing of the different parts, where appropriate)

The scheme should also include details of any other inspection regimes for the equipment. Examination schemes may be drawn up by any person with the necessary competence. This does not need to be the same competent person who conducts the thorough examination in accordance with the scheme.

Although examination schemes do not need to be preserved in the form of a document, it should be possible to produce a written copy when required (eg on request by the relevant enforcing authority). These should be secured from loss or unauthorised modification.

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MEWP LOLER Inspections from £99

Our LOLER inspections start at £99 and our pricing is dependant on the machine type and model, along with location. We can complete LOLER inspections:

  • At our premises
  • At your premises 
  • At site

Pre-Sale Inspections from factory trained techncians

We supply pre-sale inspections for equipment worldwide, and can consult both parties; the seller and buyer to assist in the sales process. We cover:

  • Pre-sale inspection and document reporting
  • In depth photographs supplied to the potential buyer
  • 4K Drone footage, of the full working envelope for both the seller and potential buyer

FAQS

How often do I need a LOLER for my MEWP?

Within every 6 months of last having a LOLER/thorough examination

How much does a LOLER inspection cost?

LOLER inspections cost from £99 plus VAT with Spider Ops

How long does a LOLER inspection take?

This is purely down to the type and model of MEWP in question. The range would typically be from 2hrs to 6hrs

Why do I need a LOLER inspection?

To remain compliant and legal

How much does a pre-sale inspection cost?

A pre-sale inspection can be carried out by a member of the Spider Ops team, from £99 plus VAT

How do I book a LOLER inspection?

Contact the team at Spider Ops today, by emailing service@spiderops.co.uk or calling 03333 058 458 with a suitable time and date for your inspection 

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