LOLER

Control thorough-examination reports, equipment identity, defects and due dates.

Build a retrievable record that connects each competent-person report with the lifting equipment and actions arising from it.

8 minute readReviewed September 2026

THE SHORT ANSWER

LOLER records should clearly identify the equipment, examination date, competent person, scope, defects, required action and latest date for the next examination.

Understanding loler inspection records

Retain reports according to the applicable statutory periods and ensure they are available to the people managing and using the equipment.

Keep routine checks, maintenance and statutory thorough examination distinct while coordinating their findings around the same lifting equipment.

A practical approach

Link reported defects to restrictions, repairs and verification without altering the original competent-person document.

Define responsibility, applicable criteria and escalation before collecting more data.

Original examination report
Equipment and configuration identity
Defect severity and deadlines
Repair and return-to-service evidence

Evidence and continual control

Keep maintenance, user checks and PUWER records distinguishable even when stored in the same equipment profile.

Review exceptions and outcomes regularly so the process improves rather than becoming static administration.

Authoritative guidance

Use these primary sources alongside your organisation's competent technical and legal advice.

HSE: Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations

COMMON QUESTIONS

LOLER inspection records FAQs

Why does loler inspection records matter?

LOLER records should clearly identify the equipment, examination date, competent person, scope, defects, required action and latest date for the next examination.

What should an organisation document?

Keep maintenance, user checks and PUWER records distinguishable even when stored in the same equipment profile.

Can software replace competent judgement?

No. Software can organise workflow and evidence, but technical, legal and safety decisions remain with competent and authorised people.

KEEP READING

Strengthen risk and inspection control

LOLER inspection softwareManage equipment identity, examination schemes, competent-person reports and follow-up without losing the distinction between maintenance and thorough examination.What is LOLER?Learn about strength and stability, positioning, marking, planning, thorough examination and reporting of defects.LOLER inspection checklistCover equipment identity, marking, documents, due dates, defects and operational controls around lifting equipment.LOLER inspection frequencyLearn why six- and twelve-month intervals are common, when a written scheme applies and which events trigger additional examination.Equipment covered by LOLERUnderstand why classification depends on function and use, and how equipment can be subject to both LOLER and PUWER.LOLER thorough examinationLearn how thorough examination differs from routine maintenance and what the competent person's report should trigger.

PUT THE GUIDANCE INTO PRACTICE

Connect inspections, risk and corrective work.

Maintarium Pro connects controlled inspections and risk records with equipment status and accountable action.

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