Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)

LOLER 1998 stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. It is a set of UK regulations that apply to all businesses or organizations that use lifting equipment for work activities.

The purpose of LOLER 1998 is to ensure that all lifting equipment is used safely and that risks associated with the use of this equipment are minimized. The regulations place legal duties on employers and those who are responsible for the control of lifting equipment, such as the selection, maintenance, and inspection of lifting equipment, and the training and supervision of workers who operate it.

What’s in-scope?

• LOLER applies to ALL lifting equipment used for work purposes;
• Lifting equipment is work equipment for lifting or lowering loads and includes its attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting it;
• It includes any lifting accessories that attach the load to the equipment in addition to the equipment which carries out the actual lifting function. 

The regulations require employers to carry out regular thorough examinations of the equipment and keep records of these examinations.

The ultimate goal of LOLER 1998 is to prevent accidents and injuries that can occur when lifting equipment is used improperly or is in a state of disrepair. It is crucial for employers to comply with these regulations to ensure the safety of their employees and to avoid legal penalties for non-compliance.

We are here to help