A LOLER inspection, properly called a thorough examination, is a systematic check of lifting equipment by a competent person to confirm it is safe to use. It is not a quick visual glance, and it is not something the operator signs off themselves. This checklist explains what a competent person examines during a LOLER thorough examination, so you know what a proper examination covers and how to prepare your equipment for it.
What a competent person examines
The exact checks depend on the equipment, but a thorough examination of typical lifting equipment covers:
- Structural condition: the main frame, jib, mast, boom or beam, checked for cracks, corrosion, distortion and wear at load-bearing points.
- Load-bearing components: hooks, shackles, eyebolts and connection points, checked for wear, opening of hook throats and damage.
- Ropes, chains and slings: wire ropes for broken wires and corrosion, chains for stretch and wear, textile slings for cuts, fraying and chemical damage.
- Mechanical parts: gears, bearings, sheaves, drums and brakes, checked for wear and correct operation.
- Safety devices: overload limiters, limit switches, interlocks and emergency stops, checked for presence and function.
- Controls and operation: the equipment run through its movements to confirm that controls, brakes and limits respond correctly.
- Markings: the safe working load clearly marked and legible, and identification present so the item can be matched to its records.
Accessories get their own examination
Lifting accessories, the components that connect the load to the machine, are examined in their own right and on their own interval. A competent person checks each sling, chain, shackle and eyebolt for wear, deformation, damage and a legible safe working load, and confirms it matches its certification. Because accessories sit on the 6 month interval under LOLER, they need scheduling separately from the machine they are used with.
How to prepare for a LOLER examination
You can make the examination quicker and more thorough by preparing in advance. A short duty-holder checklist:
- Gather previous reports of thorough examination and any manufacturer documentation.
- Make sure the equipment is accessible and, where needed, isolated and safe to examine.
- Have the safe working load information and any modification records to hand.
- List all lifting accessories so none are missed, including spares held in stores.
- Note any defects operators have reported since the last examination.
What happens after the examination
The competent person records the findings in a report of thorough examination. Any defect that is, or could become, a danger to people is identified, along with the timescale for putting it right. A defect that presents an immediate risk means the equipment should be taken out of use until it is repaired. The report also states the latest date for the next examination. For how to interpret that document, see our guide on how to read a LOLER report.
Independent examinations across Manchester and the North West
Safe-Lee is an independent consultancy, so examinations are free from any pressure to overlook a defect on equipment we also maintain or sell. Thorough examinations are carried out by Engineer Surveyor Lee Charnock (EngTech MSOE MBES), with reports typically issued within one to two working days. See our LOLER inspection service for what a visit involves, or our guide to LOLER inspection cost to understand what shapes a quote.
Frequently asked questions
Can I carry out a LOLER inspection myself?
No. A LOLER thorough examination must be carried out by a competent person with the right knowledge, experience and independence. Operators should still carry out daily pre-use checks, but those do not replace the thorough examination.
What is the difference between a LOLER inspection and a pre-use check?
A pre-use check is a quick daily look by the operator for obvious faults. A LOLER thorough examination is a detailed, systematic examination by a competent person at statutory intervals, resulting in a formal report.
Does every sling and chain need to be examined?
Yes. Lifting accessories are in scope of LOLER in their own right and are examined at least every 6 months, including spares held in stores that are still in service.
What if a defect is found?
The report records the defect and how urgently it must be addressed. Equipment with a serious defect should be withdrawn from use until it is repaired and re-examined.