What Happens During a LOLER Inspection?

A professional LOLER inspection follows a structured process designed to thoroughly assess the condition and safety of lifting equipment.

1. Visual Inspection of Equipment

The first stage is a detailed visual examination.

The inspection engineer will carefully check the equipment for signs of:

• cracks or fractures

• corrosion

• excessive wear

• deformation

• loose or missing components

• damaged welds

• leaks or contamination

  
  

This stage helps identify visible defects that may affect safety or performance.

Particular attention is given to load-bearing components because these are critical to safe lifting operations.

2. Examination of Safety Features

Safety mechanisms are an essential part of lifting equipment.

During the inspection, engineers test and assess safety features such as:

• limit switches

• emergency stop systems

• locking mechanisms

• overload protection devices

• braking systems

• warning indicators

  
  

Faulty safety systems can significantly increase the risk of accidents, so these checks are extremely important.

3. Inspection of Lifting Accessories

Lifting accessories are often subject to heavy wear and require close inspection.

This includes equipment such as:

• lifting chains

• webbing slings

• shackles

• eyebolts

• hooks

  
  

Inspectors look for stretching, cracking, cuts, distortion, or damage that could compromise lifting safety.

Accessories used frequently may require more regular inspections due to increased wear.

4. Structural Assessment

The structural integrity of the equipment is carefully assessed to ensure it can safely handle its intended load capacity.

This may involve checking:

• beams and frames

• lifting points

• mounting brackets

• chains and wire ropes

• load-bearing structures

  
  

Any structural weakness could create serious safety risks during lifting operations.

5. Review of Documentation and Previous Reports

The inspector will also review important records, including:

• previous LOLER reports

• maintenance records

• repair history

• equipment identification details

• safe working load information

  
  

This helps establish whether defects have previously been identified and whether corrective actions have been completed.

Good documentation is an important part of LOLER compliance.

6. Functional Testing

Where appropriate, operational checks may be carried out to confirm equipment functions correctly.

This can include testing:

• lifting motions

• travel functions

• braking performance

• emergency systems

• operator controls

  
  

Functional testing helps ensure the equipment operates safely under normal working conditions.

7. LOLER Inspection Report and Certification

After the examination is complete, a LOLER report is issued.

The report will usually include:

• equipment details

• inspection date

• findings and observations

• defects identified

• recommendations for repairs

• compliance status

• next inspection due date

  
  

If serious defects are found, the equipment may be deemed unsafe for use until repairs are completed.

This report forms an essential part of your compliance records and may be required during HSE inspections or insurance audits.

What Happens if Defects Are Found?

Not all defects mean equipment must immediately stop operating.

Defects are normally categorised based on severity:

Minor Defects

Small issues that should be monitored or repaired during routine maintenance.

Serious Defects

Issues that could become dangerous if left unresolved.

Immediate Danger

Defects presenting a serious safety risk may require the equipment to be removed from service immediately.

A professional inspection company will explain findings clearly and provide recommendations for corrective action.

How Often Should LOLER Inspections Be Carried Out?

Typical inspection intervals include:

Every 6 Months

For:

• lifting accessories

• equipment used for lifting people

  
  

Every 12 Months

For:

• lifting equipment used only for lifting goods

  
  

Additional inspections may also be required after:

• repairs

• modifications

• damage

• exceptional circumstances

  
  

How to Prepare for a LOLER Inspection

Businesses can help inspections run smoothly by:

• ensuring equipment is accessible

• providing previous inspection reports

• cleaning excessive dirt or debris from equipment

• identifying equipment clearly

• ensuring maintenance records are available

  
  

Preparation helps reduce downtime and allows inspections to be completed more efficiently.

Choosing a Professional LOLER Inspection Company

Working with an experienced inspection provider ensures your lifting equipment is properly assessed and fully compliant with UK regulations.

A reliable inspection company should provide:

• qualified inspection engineers

• detailed reporting

• clear defect explanations

• efficient scheduling

• independent assessments

  
  

Professional inspections help businesses maintain safe operations while meeting legal obligations.

Need a LOLER Inspection?

If your business uses lifting equipment, regular LOLER inspections are essential to maintain compliance and workplace safety.

Our experienced engineers provide professional LOLER inspections for businesses across multiple industries, helping companies keep equipment safe, compliant, and fully operational.

📩 Get in Touch

Contact us today to arrange your LOLER inspection or discuss your compliance requirements.

👉 Contact us today to arrange your LOLER inspection and keep your business running safely and efficiently. 📧 info@mechinspect.co.uk 📲 0330 043 3448