What A Thorough Examination Does
A forklift LOLER inspection in Leicester is usually a request for a thorough examination of lifting equipment. It is a detailed safety assessment by a competent person, with a written report. It is distinct from routine maintenance, a pre-use check or a service visit.
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 cover lifting equipment used at work. For a forklift, the examination considers safety-critical lifting components and defects that could create danger. Confirm the scope of the proposed examination and whether wider truck safety items under PUWER are included.
When Examination Is Needed
The examination schedule depends on the equipment and its use. Unless a competent person specifies a different interval in a written examination scheme, HSE gives six-month intervals for equipment lifting people and lifting accessories, and twelve-month intervals for other lifting equipment (HSE, Thorough Examinations). Confirm the schedule for your actual truck, attachments and use.
There can also be a need for examination after installation or exceptional circumstances that could affect safety. Discuss substantial modifications, damage or major repairs with the competent person. An existing report does not mean a truck can continue working after a new safety defect develops.
Competence And Clear Responsibilities
The competent person needs appropriate knowledge and experience to identify defects and assess their significance. HSE also expects sufficient independence and impartiality to make objective decisions. Ask how this is provided, particularly where servicing and examination are arranged through the same business.
For hired or leased equipment, read the agreement to establish who arranges the examination and provides the report. The employer using the truck still needs to manage safe operation. Keep examination dates visible and request the relevant records rather than assuming they travel automatically with the machine.
Preparing For The Examination
Provide the truck identification, previous examination report and any examination scheme. Include the service history, known defects and details of fitted attachments. Make the equipment available in a safe location with enough access for the agreed inspection and any necessary checks.
Afterwards, read the report and distinguish defects requiring immediate action from those with a stated rectification deadline. Dangerous equipment must be removed from use. Keep evidence of remedial work and follow the competent person’s instructions about any further assessment before operation resumes.
Scope, Cost And Follow-Up
The quotation depends on the truck type, attachments, access arrangements and the agreed examination scope. Multiple machines may be scheduled together if suitable access and availability can be arranged. Ask whether travel, separate accessories and any subsequent attendance are included.
A failed examination can create repair work, but repair approval should remain clear and documented. An examination report is not a promise of future trouble-free operation. Continue daily checks and planned maintenance between examinations, and review the arrangement if the equipment or work changes.
SAFETY & RESPONSIBILITIES
Put Safe Use First
LOLER and PUWER address different parts of workplace equipment safety. A thorough examination needs a competent person and a written report. Confirm that the assessment covers the required lifting components and clarify any wider safety checks rather than assuming the title of the booking defines the full scope.
Read HSE’s Lift Truck Guidance and discuss duties with the person responsible for equipment safety at your site.
Your Questions Answered
Is A LOLER Examination The Same As A Service?
A LOLER examination is separate from a service. It assesses the condition of lifting equipment and records safety defects, while servicing carries out planned maintenance. Both may be needed, and one does not replace the other. Confirm the examination scope and retain its report alongside, rather than inside, the routine service history.
Who Arranges LOLER Examination For A Hired Forklift?
LOLER examination arrangements for a hired forklift should be set out in the hire agreement. Confirm who books the examination, supplies the report and tracks the next due date. The business using the equipment still needs to manage safe use, check the relevant records and act on defects that arise during the hire period.
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