Passenger Lift Inspection
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
Statutory 6-monthly thorough examination of passenger lifts under LOLER 1998.
Overview
A passenger lift LOLER thorough examination is the statutory 6-monthly inspection that keeps a lift carrying people safe and compliant. Safe-Lee examines passenger lifts in offices, retail, industrial and residential buildings across Manchester and the North West, working independently of your lift maintenance contractor so the examination is a genuine second pair of eyes.
We attend at a time that suits the building, examine the lift and its safety systems, and issue a clear report of thorough examination, typically within one to two working days. The thorough examination sits alongside, and does not replace, your routine lift maintenance.
What we inspect
A passenger lift examination covers the car, the suspension and the safety systems that protect passengers:
- Suspension ropes or belts, their terminations and condition
- Safety gear, overspeed governor and the trip test arrangements
- Brake and machine, for condition and correct operation
- Car and landing doors, interlocks and door protection
- Buffers, counterweight and guide rails
- Levelling accuracy and ride quality
- Car controls, alarm and emergency communication
Inspection frequency
Because a passenger lift carries people, LOLER sets a shorter maximum interval:
- Every 6 months for the thorough examination
- Or in line with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person, where one is in place
- Sooner after substantial repair or modification, or an exceptional event
The 6-monthly interval is a LOLER maximum, not a target; your risk assessment or insurer may call for closer attention.
Common defects we find
On passenger lifts, the findings we commonly record include:
- Worn or contaminated suspension ropes, and slack-rope conditions
- Door interlock faults and worn door gear
- Safety-gear or overspeed governor trip levels out of specification
- Brake wear affecting stopping accuracy
- Poor levelling at landings
- A faulty car alarm or emergency communication line
Why choose Safe-Lee
Safe-Lee is an independent consultancy, and examinations are carried out by Engineer Surveyor Lee Charnock (EngTech MSOE MBES). Reports are typically issued within one to two working days, and we cover Manchester and the North West. Because we are independent of the maintenance contract, the examination is a true independent check.
For the intervals across all lifting equipment, see our LOLER inspection frequency guide, and for pricing, our LOLER inspection cost guide. More on our LOLER service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does a passenger lift need a LOLER examination?
Every 6 months, because it is used to lift people. This is the LOLER maximum interval; it can be shorter where an examination scheme or risk assessment requires it.
Is the LOLER examination the same as our lift maintenance?
No. Maintenance keeps the lift running; the LOLER thorough examination is an independent statutory check that it is safe. Both are needed, and they are usually carried out by different parties.
Who is the duty holder for a passenger lift?
Usually the person in control of the premises, such as the building owner or managing agent. If you are unsure, we can help you work out who holds the duty.
Do you work around building occupants?
Yes. We plan the examination to minimise disruption, and can attend outside busy periods where that suits the building.
What if the lift is found unsafe?
A defect that is an existing or imminent danger means the lift should be taken out of use until it is put right. We record the finding with timescales and explain it clearly.
Need a passenger lift inspection?
Quick conversation, honest scoping, fast quote. Talk to a competent person.