Here in the UK, we have some of the most stringent and far-reaching safety regulations in the world. These regulations are designed to ensure that everyone works safely and happily regardless of their occupation; this is no different for those working with lifting equipment. The umbrella set of safety and best-practice regulations are covered by the ‘Lift Operation and Lifting Equipment Regulations’ 1998, also known as LOLER. Lifting equipment can cover anything from elevators to cranes and forklifts, meaning that it is an essential piece of safety legislation.
However, if you own or run a piece of lifting equipment, you may be wondering what you may need to do in order to remain compliant with industry regulations. Luckily, as experts in LOLER testing, we at HP Hydraulics have decided to write a quick guide on some of the more important aspects of this vital piece of legislation.
What is lifting equipment?
When it comes to defining exactly what constitutes lifting equipment, LOLER regulations note all ‘work equipment for lifting or lowering loads and includes its attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting it’.
This then encompasses all equipment that transports both people and goods whilst including any accessories that aid in operation including hooks, chains, spreader beams and the whole host of other components necessary in lifting action.
Safe working load
Of course, one of the main aspects of lift equipment safety is ascertaining the maximum safe working load (SWL) and putting rules into place to counteract this. As a standard, all lifting equipment should be marked with the SWL to ensure proper use.
All accessories connected to the machinery should also be marked as the SWL may change depending on the components and configuration of the lifting equipment. Equipment used to transport people should indicate the maximum number of people able to use it as well as the SWL.
Planning and carrying out operations
When it comes to actually using lifting equipment, it is essential to first identify and assess any potential risks involved. This needs to be carried out by a competent person and is essential to safe operation.
During operation, all lifting equipment should be appropriately supervised and should be carried out in the safest manner possible. This can range depending on the complexity of the lifting equipment and operation so it is important to ascertain what you need for your specific piece of machinery to remain compliant.
Extensive examinations
To ensure that lifting equipment works and remains working, it is vital that proper tests are undertaken. To start with, all lifting equipment should be tested before first use to ensure that it is fit for use.
After this, lifting equipment carrying people and all accessories need to be tested every six months to check for degradation. Everything else should be tested every 12 months, however, this could be changed if a competent person deems the need.
Ensure LOLER compliance with HP Hydraulics
LOLER regulations are essential both to a safe and efficient work environment. If you’re working with hydraulic lifting machinery, it is vital that you have an expert carry out repairs to keep you safe on the job.
With over 50 years of experience in machinery repairs, HP Hydraulics have become industry experts in commercial vehicle repair, making comprehensive repairs to ensure your machinery is safe to use and compliant with LOLER standards.
For more information on our range of services, visit our website or get in touch with our team on 01329 828 877.