LOLER Inspections in Preston
Preston is the administrative centre of Lancashire and a major aerospace hub. BAE Systems operates from three interconnected sites at Preston (Strand Road), Warton Aerodrome, and Samlesbury, assembling Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35 Lightning II components.
About LOLER Inspections in Preston
Aerospace manufacturing, logistics, and construction all converge in Preston, creating substantial demand for lifting equipment inspection under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. BAE Systems' operations at Warton and Samlesbury employ overhead cranes, specialist jigs, engine hoists, and lifting accessories to handle aircraft components and assemblies — equipment that must undergo thorough examination at statutory intervals. Safe Lee Inspection & Consultancy provides LOLER inspections across Preston, serving employers from major defence contractors to small engineering workshops. The Riversway and Red Scar industrial estates contain distribution centres and manufacturing firms operating forklifts, reach trucks, goods lifts, and overhead cranes. Preston's construction sector is active, with residential developments along the Riversway waterfront, commercial projects in the city centre, and infrastructure work supporting the city's continued growth — all generating demand for crane, hoist, and scaffold hoist inspections. Vehicle-mounted cranes are common among Preston's building materials suppliers and utility contractors operating from the Deepdale and Longsands trading areas. Royal Preston Hospital uses patient hoists, bed lifts, and specialist lifting equipment for its operating theatres and wards, all requiring six-monthly thorough examination. The University of Central Lancashire employs laboratory lifting equipment and workshop cranes in its engineering and science facilities. Lifting accessories — slings, chains, shackles, and eyebolts — are included in every Safe Lee thorough examination, as these items are subject to wear and fatigue that can lead to sudden failure. We produce comprehensive reports identifying all defects, categorising them by risk level, and specifying timescales for corrective action. From our Irlam base, Safe Lee reaches Preston efficiently via the M6 motorway, providing a responsive, cost-effective LOLER service for the city's diverse employer base.
Key Areas We Cover
- BAE Systems Strand Road
- Warton Aerodrome
- Samlesbury Aerodrome
- Roman Way Industrial Estate
- Riversway Business Village
Local Landmarks
BAE Systems Warton — headquarters of Military Air & Information, assembly site for Eurofighter Typhoon
Industries Requiring LOLER Inspections in Preston
We work with businesses of all sizes across a wide range of sectors.
Aerospace
BAE Systems' Warton Aerodrome assembles the Eurofighter Typhoon, while the Samlesbury site manufactures F-35 Lightning II components. These facilities operate clean rooms, autoclaves, overhead cranes, and robotic systems requiring comprehensive PSSR, LOLER, and PUWER inspections.
Manufacturing
Preston's Roman Way Industrial Estate and the wider aerospace supply chain host precision engineering firms using CNC machines, lathes, and pressure systems requiring regular PUWER and PSSR inspections.
Construction
Preston's City Deal regeneration programme and new-build developments require WAHR inspections of scaffolding, tower cranes, and fall arrest systems across active construction sites.
Healthcare
Royal Preston Hospital operates autoclaves, sterilisation pressure vessels, and patient lifting equipment requiring statutory thorough examinations under PSSR 2000 and LOLER 1998.
Is Your Business Compliant?
Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, employers and duty holders are legally required to ensure equipment is thoroughly examined by a competent person at regular intervals. Failure to comply can result in significant fines, enforcement action, and — most importantly — puts your workforce at serious risk.
Preston is the administrative centre of Lancashire and a major aerospace hub. BAE Systems operates from three interconnected sites at Preston (Strand Road), Warton Aerodrome, and Samlesbury, assembling Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35 Lightning II components.
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 compliance is not optional
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspections does the aerospace sector around Preston need?
BAE Systems' facilities at Warton, Samlesbury, and Preston's Strand Road require comprehensive statutory inspections: PSSR examinations for autoclaves used in composite curing, LOLER thorough examinations for overhead cranes and lifting rigs, PUWER inspections for CNC machines and robotic assembly systems, and COSHH LEV testing for clean room ventilation and paint shop extraction.
Do engineering firms in Preston's aerospace supply chain need statutory inspections?
Yes. Precision engineering firms on Roman Way Industrial Estate and across Preston's aerospace supply chain are subject to the same statutory inspection requirements as any manufacturer. Compressed air systems require PSSR inspections, lifting equipment needs LOLER examinations, and workshop machinery requires PUWER assessments. SafeLee serves the Preston area with all of these services.
What does a LOLER inspection involve?
A LOLER thorough examination involves a detailed inspection of lifting equipment to identify any defects, damage, or wear that could affect safe operation. This includes visual examination, functional testing where appropriate, and checking that all safety devices and markings are in place and correct.
How often is a LOLER inspection required?
Under LOLER 1998, lifting equipment used to lift people must be thoroughly examined every 6 months. All other lifting equipment requires examination every 12 months, or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person. Equipment must also be examined after installation or reassembly.
What equipment does a LOLER inspection cover?
LOLER inspections cover all lifting equipment including overhead cranes, mobile cranes, hoists, lifts (passenger and goods), forklift trucks, chain slings, wire rope slings, shackles, eyebolts, lifting beams, and any other accessories used for lifting loads.
Do I need a LOLER inspection for a forklift truck?
Yes. Forklift trucks are classified as lifting equipment under LOLER 1998 and require a thorough examination at least every 12 months. If the forklift is used to lift people (for example, with a working platform attachment), it must be examined every 6 months.
Our LOLER Inspections Process
A straightforward, professional approach from first contact to ongoing compliance.
- 1
Initial Consultation
We discuss your requirements, the equipment involved, and any specific regulatory obligations relevant to your site.
- 2
Site Survey
Our engineer visits your premises to assess the scope of the inspection and identify any immediate concerns.
- 3
Thorough Examination
A detailed, hands-on inspection of all relevant equipment carried out to the applicable statutory standards.
- 4
Report & Recommendations
You receive a comprehensive written report detailing findings, defects, and clear recommendations for remedial action.
- 5
Ongoing Support
We provide follow-up guidance, schedule future inspections, and help you maintain continuous compliance.
What Our Clients Say
“Lee is a fantastic engineer and very approachable. He delivers examinations with minimal disturbance to your operations in a timely manner. If you need or are unsure if your equipment requires an examination, contact Lee and he will guide you through the process of becoming and staying compliant.”
Lee Stanaway
Reviewed on Google
“Brilliant company! Can't recommend Lee enough. Great communication throughout and speedy reporting to ensure kit is compliant with LOLER and PUWER.”
Thomas Bullivant
Reviewed on Google
“Great service, very knowledgeable regarding my lifting equipment. If you're needing a LOLER examination carried out, get on to Safe Lee!”
Sean Crawford
Reviewed on Google
Need LOLER Inspections in Preston?
Speak to our experienced engineers today for a free, no-obligation quote.