Tail Lift Inspection
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
Statutory 6-monthly thorough examination of vehicle tail-lifts under LOLER 1998.
Overview
A tail lift thorough examination is the LOLER inspection that keeps a vehicle tail-lift safe and compliant. Safe-Lee examines column, cantilever and tuck-away tail-lifts on rigid vehicles and trailers for operators across Manchester and the North West, on individual vehicles and across fleets.
We work around your transport schedule, examine the tail-lift through its full operation, and issue a clear report of thorough examination, typically within one to two working days. Because we are independent, our only interest is an accurate report.
What we inspect
A tail-lift examination covers the structure, the hydraulics and the safety features:
- Platform and lifting arms, for cracks, corrosion and distortion
- Pivot pins, bushes and bearings, for wear and security
- Hydraulic rams, hoses and connections, for leaks and damage
- Ramps, roll-stops and any tilt function
- Controls, and the audible or visual warning devices
- Mounting to the vehicle chassis or trailer
Inspection frequency
LOLER sets the maximum interval by how the tail-lift is used:
- Every 12 months for a tail-lift used only to raise and lower goods
- Every 6 months where it is used to lift a person, for example a passenger or wheelchair user riding the platform
- Sooner after substantial repair, modification, or an exceptional event such as an overload or collision
The intervals are LOLER maximums. Many operators shorten them for tail-lifts in constant daily use.
Common defects we find
On vehicle tail-lifts, the findings we commonly record include:
- Worn or insecure pivot pins and bushes
- Hydraulic leaks from rams, hoses or fittings, and slow or uneven operation
- Cracked or corroded platform sections and lifting arms
- Missing or damaged roll-stops and hand-rails
- Damaged control boxes or a failed warning device
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. We can examine tail-lifts at your depot to fit around vehicle availability.
For what drives the price, see our LOLER inspection cost guide. More on our LOLER service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does a tail lift need a thorough examination?
Every 12 months if it lifts only goods, and every 6 months where it is used to lift a person, such as a wheelchair passenger. These are LOLER maximum intervals.
Can you examine tail-lifts at our depot?
Yes. We can attend your depot and work around vehicle availability, including examining several vehicles in one visit.
Does a tail lift on a hired vehicle still need examining?
Yes. Responsibility depends on the hire or lease agreement, so confirm whether the duty sits with you or the provider.
Is this the same as the vehicle's MOT or service?
No. The LOLER thorough examination of the tail-lift is a separate statutory requirement from the vehicle's roadworthiness testing and routine servicing.
What happens if the tail lift fails?
A serious defect means the tail-lift should be taken out of use until it is repaired and re-examined. We record findings with timescales and explain them on site.
Need a tail lift inspection?
Quick conversation, honest scoping, fast quote. Talk to a competent person.