Compliance
LOLER: thorough examination, and the two intervals that matter
The short answer
Lifting equipment must undergo thorough examination at least every six months where it lifts people, and at least every twelve months otherwise — or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person. These intervals are set in law, which makes LOLER unusual among the compliance areas on this site.
LOLER is the exception that proves the rule. Where most compliance intervals are guidance dressed up as law, here the frequency really is statutory — and a passenger lift examined annually rather than six-monthly is straightforwardly in breach.
What is required, and where it comes from
- Legal requirement
Lifting equipment used to lift people must undergo thorough examination at least every six months.
Source: LOLER 1998, Regulation 9(3)
- Legal requirement
Other lifting equipment and accessories must undergo thorough examination at least every twelve months.
Source: LOLER 1998, Regulation 9(3)
- Legal requirement
Alternatively, examinations may follow an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person, which may set different intervals.
Source: LOLER 1998, Regulation 9(3)
- Legal requirement
A report of thorough examination must be provided, and defects presenting an existing or imminent danger must be reported to the enforcing authority.
Source: LOLER 1998, Regulations 10 and 11
- Typical practice
Thorough examination is not maintenance. Servicing to keep the equipment in good working order is a separate activity under PUWER and is usually more frequent.
Source: HSE guidance; PUWER 1998
Confusing the two is the most common LOLER failing in commercial property.
What proves it was done
Compliance is demonstrated with records, not intentions. These are the documents an enforcing authority, an insurer or a purchaser’s solicitor will ask for.
- Reports of thorough examination for every item, within the applicable interval
- The written examination scheme where one is being relied upon
- Records showing defects were rectified, with dates
- Separate servicing and maintenance records under PUWER
- Evidence of the examiner's competence and independence
Where this usually goes wrong
- Passenger lifts examined every twelve months instead of every six
- Treating the maintenance contractor's service visit as the thorough examination
- Lifting accessories — slings, eyebolts, beams — omitted from the register entirely
- Defects in reports not tracked to closure
- No register of lifting equipment, so nobody knows what should be examined
What happens if it is missed
LOLER is enforced by the HSE and, in some premises, the local authority. Operating a passenger lift outside its examination interval is a clear breach and, following an incident, an indefensible one. Reports identifying imminent danger must be notified to the enforcing authority by the examiner.
This page is general information about compliance obligations in commercial property, not legal advice. Legislation cited applies to England and Wales unless stated; Scotland and Northern Ireland differ, particularly on fire safety. Duty holders should confirm their position against current legislation and a competent assessment of their own premises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries regarding contract scopes, SLAs, compliance audits, and onboarding.
At least every six months, because it lifts people. Goods-only lifting equipment is at least every twelve months. Both can instead follow an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person.
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