LOLER Regulations Explained
Staying compliant with LOLER is critical for anyone managing buildings with lifts, hoists, or lifting equipment. This guide explains what LOLER is, who it applies to, and what you need to do to stay on the right side of the law.
What is LOLER?
LOLER stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. Introduced under the UK’s Health and Safety at Work Act, these regulations are designed to ensure that all lifting equipment is safe to use and properly maintained.
In simple terms, LOLER requires that:
- All lifting equipment is suitably strong, stable, and safe
- Equipment is regularly inspected by a competent person
- Lifting operations are properly planned and supervised
- Equipment has accurate and accessible inspection records
Who Needs to Comply with LOLER?
If you're a property manager, landlord, or facilities manager, and your building has any of the following, you’re likely responsible for LOLER compliance:
- Passenger lifts
- Goods lifts
- Platform lifts
- Stairlifts used commercially
- Hoists in care or hospital environments
- Crane or dock lifts
Whether you manage an office building, retail centre, hotel, or residential block, if lifting equipment is used, you have legal responsibilities under LOLER.
How Often Should LOLER Inspections Be Carried Out?
LOLER inspections must be carried out by a ‘competent person’ at set intervals - failing to follow these timelines can result in legal penalties and safety risks:
| Type of Lift | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|
| Passenger lifts | Every 6 months |
| Goods-only lifts | Every 12 months |
| Lifting accessories (e.g. slings, chains) | Every 6 months |
| After major repairs or installation | Before being returned to use |
What Does a LOLER Inspection Involve?
A LOLER inspection is more than just a visual check. It involves:
- A thorough examination of the lift or equipment
- Checking all safety features (emergency stop, alarms, interlocks)
- Reviewing the maintenance history
- Issuing a report of thorough examination, with any defects or concerns highlighted
- Advising on whether the lift is safe to use or needs to be taken out of service
At AMS Group, our engineers provide LOLER inspections that comply fully with BS EN 13015 and SFG20 standards.
What Are the Risks of Not Complying?
Ignoring LOLER responsibilities can lead to serious consequences:
- Legal penalties — including fines or enforcement action from the HSE
- Invalidated insurance
- Reputational damage if users are injured due to faulty equipment
- Prosecution in cases of serious negligence
Even if you outsource lift maintenance, you remain legally responsible for ensuring LOLER inspections are carried out.
How AMS Group Can Help
At AMS Group, we support property managers, landlords, and FM teams across the South West and Wales with:
- Scheduled LOLER inspections
- Maintenance and servicing of all major lift types
- Emergency repairs and support
- Clear, easy-to-access inspection reports
We resolve 98% of breakdowns on the first visit, and work with national facilities teams and local businesses alike.