The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) is a set of UK regulations that aim to ensure the safe use and maintenance of lifting equipment. LOLER applies to all workplaces where lifting equipment is used, including construction sites, factories, and warehouses. The regulations place legal obligations on employers, employees, and those who manage or control lifting equipment.
LOLER sets out the minimum health and safety requirements for the use of lifting equipment, including cranes, hoists, forklift trucks, and other equipment used for lifting loads. The regulations require all lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined by a competent person at regular intervals to ensure it is safe to use.
The regulations also place duties on those responsible for the equipment, including employers and equipment owners, to ensure that it is suitable for the intended use, properly maintained, and operated by competent and trained personnel.
Who is Responsible for Compliance?
Employers are responsible for ensuring that all lifting equipment used in their workplace is safe and suitable for the task. They must also provide adequate information, instruction, and training to their employees who use the equipment.
Equipment owners must ensure that the equipment they own is maintained and safe for use. This includes making sure that equipment is inspected by a competent person at regular intervals, and that any defects are identified and addressed promptly.
Employees who use lifting equipment must be properly trained and competent to do so. They must also follow safe working practices and report any defects or problems with the equipment to their employer.
What are the Requirements of LOLER?
LOLER requires all lifting equipment to be examined by a competent person at regular intervals. The frequency of the examination will depend on the type of equipment and its intended use. Some equipment may require a thorough examination every six months, while others may only require an inspection once a year.
The competent person who carries out the examination must have appropriate knowledge and experience of the equipment they are examining. They must also be independent of the person who uses or manages the equipment.
LOLER also requires equipment owners to keep records of all inspections and examinations of the equipment. These records must be kept for at least two years and made available to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on request.
What are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?
Non-compliance with LOLER can result in serious consequences for employers, equipment owners, and employees. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in enforcement action by the HSE, including improvement notices, prohibition notices, and fines.
In addition to the legal consequences, non-compliance can also lead to accidents and injuries. Faulty or poorly maintained lifting equipment can cause serious harm to employees and members of the public. Employers who fail to comply with the regulations can also damage their reputation and lose the trust of their employees and customers.
Conclusion
LOLER is an essential set of regulations designed to ensure the safe use and maintenance of lifting equipment. Employers, equipment owners, and employees all have a responsibility to comply with the regulations to ensure the safety of those who use and are affected by the equipment. By following the requirements of LOLER, employers can protect their employees, avoid legal action, and maintain their reputation as a responsible and safe workplace.