LOLER and PUWER Statutory Inspections: What We Do and Why Your Business Needs Them
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- 11 minutes ago
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If your business uses lifting equipment or work equipment, LOLER and PUWER statutory inspections are not optional – they are a legal requirement. At Mechanical Inspection Services, we specialise in helping UK businesses stay compliant, safe, and fully operational through professional, independent LOLER and PUWER inspections.
This guide explains what LOLER and PUWER inspections are, why they matter, and how we support your business – while helping you understand your legal responsibilities.
What Is a LOLER Statutory Inspection?
LOLER stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. These regulations apply to any equipment used for lifting or lowering loads, including people.
Common equipment that requires LOLER inspection includes:
Forklift trucks
Cranes and hoists
Passenger lifts and goods lifts
Vehicle tail lifts
Lifting accessories such as chains, slings, shackles and eyebolts
What We Do During a LOLER Inspection
Our qualified inspectors carry out a thorough examination to ensure your lifting equipment is:
Safe to use
Suitable for its intended purpose
Correctly installed and positioned
Free from defects that could cause injury
Following the inspection, we provide clear certification and written reports, including defect classifications and timescales for remedial action if required.
What Is a PUWER Statutory Inspection?
PUWER stands for the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. These regulations cover almost all work equipment, not just lifting equipment.
PUWER applies to equipment such as:
Machinery and production equipment
Power tools
Presses and conveyors
Workshop equipment
Site tools and fixed installations
What We Do During a PUWER Inspection
Our PUWER inspections assess whether your equipment:
Is suitable for the task and environment
Is properly guarded and controlled
Has appropriate emergency stops and safety features
Is maintained in a safe condition
Is being used correctly
We identify risks, highlight non-compliance, and offer practical guidance to help you meet your obligations without disrupting your operations.
Why LOLER and PUWER Statutory Inspections Are a Legal Requirement
Under UK health and safety law, employers have a duty of care to protect employees, contractors, and members of the public.
Failure to comply with LOLER or PUWER can result in:
Enforcement notices
Prosecution and unlimited fines
Invalidated insurance
Serious injuries or fatalities
Business downtime and reputational damage
Regular statutory inspections demonstrate compliance and significantly reduce risk.
How Often Do LOLER and PUWER Statutory Inspections Need to Be Carried Out?
LOLER Statutory Inspection Intervals
Every 6 months – equipment lifting people
Every 12 months – equipment lifting goods only
In accordance with a written scheme where applicable
PUWER Statutory Inspection Intervals
PUWER does not specify fixed intervals. Inspections should be carried out:
After installation or relocation
After significant modification or repair
At suitable intervals based on risk and usage
We can help you determine the correct inspection frequency for your equipment.
Why Choose Us for LOLER and PUWER Statutory Inspections?
At Mechanical Inspection Services, we provide a professional, reliable and compliant inspection service tailored to your business needs.
What Sets Us Apart
Fully qualified and experienced inspectors
Independent, unbiased examinations
Clear, easy-to-understand reports
Fast turnaround on certification
Nationwide coverage
Minimal disruption to your operations
We work with businesses across industries including aviation, education, manufacturing, warehousing, construction, logistics, retail and facilities management.
Book Your LOLER or PUWER Statutory Inspection
If you are responsible for work equipment or lifting equipment, now is the time to ensure compliance.
Contact Mechanical Inspection Services today to discuss your LOLER and PUWER Statutory inspection requirements, get a quote and receive expert advice you can trust.
0330 043 3448 / info@mechincpect.co.uk
Berkshire, UK / Nationwide
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