LOLER 1998 Made Simple: Your Essential Guide to Lifting Operations and Equipment

If your business involves lifting people or loads, understanding your legal responsibilities is essential. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 - commonly known as LOLER 1998 - are designed to ensure lifting equipment is used safely in the workplace. But what is the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 really about, and how can your business stay compliant?

Read our latest blog that can help break it down to help you uunderstand your obligations and avoid costly mistakes.

What is LOLER 1998?

LOLER 1998 stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. Introduced under the Health and Safety at Work Act, it sets out the rules for using lifting equipment safely in all workplaces. The regulations apply to any equipment used at work for lifting or lowering loads, including accessories and attachments.

So, what are the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998? Put simply, it’s the legal framework ensuring that lifting operations are properly planned, supervised, and carried out safely.

Why is LOLER important?

Failure to comply with LOLER can lead to serious workplace accidents, injuries, fines or even prosecution. These regulations are in place to:

• Protect workers and the public
• Minimise risk of equipment failure
• Promote planned, risk-assessed lifting procedures
• Support a culture of safety in the workplace

LOLER also helps businesses remain compliant with UK health and safety law, making it an essential part of operational planning.

Who does LOLER apply to?

LOLER applies to any business or organisation that uses lifting equipment, regardless of size or industry. This includes:

• Employers
• Self-employed individuals
• People or organisations responsible for equipment control (duty holders)

Whether you own the equipment or hire it in, if you control its use then lifting operations and lifting equipment regulations apply to you.

Examples of lifting equipment and industries that use it

Lifting equipment specifically falls under the scope of which regulations? That’s right - LOLER 1998.

Common lifting equipment includes:

• Cranes
• Forklift trucks
• Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)
• Vehicle lifts
• Hoists
• Lifting accessories like chains, slings, and shackles

Meanwhile, the industries where LOLER applies include:

• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Warehousing and logistics
• Healthcare
• Agriculture
• Waste management

Key duties for employers and workers under LOLER

Under LOLER, employers and duty holders are required to:

• Ensure lifting equipment is strong, stable, and suitable for its intended use
• Properly mark equipment with safe working loads (SWLs)
• Ensure all lifting operations are planned and carried out by competent people
• Schedule regular inspections and maintenance
• Keep accurate records of all equipment examinations

Employees also have responsibilities, such as using equipment correctly and reporting any faults or concerns.

How to plan safe lifting operations

Safe lifting isn’t just about equipment. It’s about making sure the job is done safely. Under LOLER, all lifting operations must be:

Properly planned

A competent person should plan each lifting task, taking into account the load, environment, equipment, and personnel involved.

Appropriately supervised

Even the best plan needs careful oversight. Someone with the right knowledge should supervise to ensure procedures are followed safely.

Carried out safely

All lifting tasks must be executed with care, using the right equipment, following best practices, and avoiding unnecessary risks.

LOLER inspections - what you need to know

LOLER requires lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined at specific intervals. Ensuring your business or organisation follows these practices is crucial for health and safety management, so make sure you familiarise yourself with key dates and procedures.

How often are inspections required?

• Every 6 months for lifting equipment used to lift people.
• Every 6 months for lifting accessories (e.g., slings, chains).
• Every 12 months for other lifting equipment (e.g., forklifts, cranes).

However, more frequent checks may be required depending on usage and working conditions.

Who can carry out LOLER inspections?

A competent person-someone with the necessary knowledge, experience, and independence must conduct the inspection. This could be an in-house qualified engineer or an external inspection body.

Record keeping

You must keep detailed records of:

• All inspections and examinations
• Any defects found and actions taken
• Maintenance and repair history

These records must be available for at least two years or until the next inspection, whichever is longer.

The difference between LOLER and PUWER

While LOLER focuses specifically on lifting equipment, PUWER-the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 applies to all work equipment.

The differences include:

In many cases, both sets of regulations apply simultaneously.

Staying compliant with LOLER

To stay compliant with LOLER, consider the following steps:

1.       Identify all lifting equipment in your workplace

2.       Ensure it's fit for purpose and regularly inspected

3.       Train staff on safe use and responsibilities

4.       Keep clear, up-to-date records

5.       Use competent people for planning and supervision

Being proactive about LOLER compliance reduces risks and demonstrates your commitment to workplace safety.

Provide safe work equipment with phs Besafe

Keeping your lifting operations safe and compliant is easier when you partner with trusted experts. At phs Besafe, you can equip your workplace with everything it needs to maintain safety and keep workers safe on the job. We not only sell protective workwear garments, but we also provide laundering services for protective gear, helping you maintain a safe and efficient workwear environment.

No matter your industry, it’s always important to put safety first. Contact us today to find out more about our services and how we can become your trusted partner in maintaining workplace safety.