LOLER

Identify lifting equipment and accessories that may fall within LOLER.

Understand why classification depends on function and use, and how equipment can be subject to both LOLER and PUWER.

8 minute readReviewed September 2026

THE SHORT ANSWER

LOLER concerns work equipment for lifting or lowering loads, including attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting it. Loads can include people where equipment is designed for that purpose.

Understanding equipment covered by loler

Examples can include cranes, hoists, lifts, vehicle lifts, lifting accessories and parts of lift trucks used for lifting.

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

A practical approach

Review how equipment is actually used, including attachments and accessories. Obtain competent advice for borderline or complex systems.

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

Lifting machines
Lifting accessories
Equipment lifting people
Attachments and supporting items

Evidence and continual control

Record the classification and applicable examination scheme so equipment is not omitted or given an inappropriate interval.

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

Equipment covered by LOLER FAQs

Why does equipment covered by loler matter?

LOLER concerns work equipment for lifting or lowering loads, including attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting it. Loads can include people where equipment is designed for that purpose.

What should an organisation document?

Record the classification and applicable examination scheme so equipment is not omitted or given an inappropriate interval.

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.LOLER thorough examinationLearn how thorough examination differs from routine maintenance and what the competent person's report should trigger.LOLER inspection recordsBuild a retrievable record that connects each competent-person report with the lifting equipment and actions arising from it.

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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