A Duty Holder’s Guide to LOLER 1998
What the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 actually require of you, in plain English.
What it is
LOLER applies wherever lifting equipment is used at work, from cranes and hoists to vehicle lifts, passenger lifts, slings and other accessories. It sits alongside PUWER and exists to make sure lifting equipment is strong enough, used safely and checked regularly by someone competent.
Who the duty holder is
The duty holder is the employer or person in control of the lifting equipment and its use. If you own, hire out, or operate lifting equipment at work, the duties fall on you.
What it requires of you
- Make sure lifting equipment is strong and stable enough for each load, and marked with its safe working load (SWL).
- Position and install it so the risk of the load or equipment striking anyone is as low as reasonably practicable.
- Plan, supervise and carry out every lifting operation safely, by people who are competent.
- Have lifting equipment thoroughly examined by a competent person at the required intervals, or to a written examination scheme.
- Keep the reports of thorough examination, act on any defects found, and report dangerous defects to the enforcing authority.
How often
| Equipment that lifts people, and lifting accessories | At least every 6 months |
| All other lifting equipment (e.g. cranes, hoists) | At least every 12 months |
| Either of the above | Or in line with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person |
What happens if you don’t
A missed or overdue thorough examination can put the equipment out of compliance, invalidate insurance and, if it leads to harm, expose the duty holder to enforcement action, prosecution and unlimited fines under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
Sources: LOLER 1998, LOLER: HSE guidance
This guide is general guidance, not legal advice, and is a summary only. Duties and intervals can change and depend on your circumstances. Always check the current regulation and take competent-person advice. Last reviewed June 2026.