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LOLAR Basics

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17 views

LOLAR Basics

Uploaded by

umair ahmed
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) is a set of

regulations under UK law that governs the use of lifting equipment and lifting
operations in the workplace. Its primary purpose is to ensure the safety of
workers during lifting operations and to minimize risks associated with lifting
equipment.

Here are the basic principles and key requirements of LOLER:

1. Application of LOLER

LOLER applies to all lifting equipment used at work, which includes:

 Cranes

 Hoists

 Lifting platforms

 Forklifts

 Lifting slings

 Chain blocks

 Winches

 Other lifting accessories

It also covers lifting operations (the actual use of lifting equipment to


move loads).

2. Key Requirements of LOLER

a. Safe Equipment

 All lifting equipment must be suitable for the intended lifting


operation, in terms of strength, stability, and design.

 Equipment should be well-maintained and fit for purpose, to


ensure safe operation.

 It must be marked to indicate its safe working load (SWL), ensuring


operators know the maximum weight it can safely lift.

b. Thorough Inspection and Testing


 Regular inspections: Lifting equipment must be inspected regularly
to ensure it is safe for use.

o At least every 6 months for lifting equipment that is used for


lifting people.

o At least annually for other types of lifting equipment, or more


frequently if it is subjected to heavy use or harsh conditions.

 Equipment must undergo testing before first use and after any
modifications, repairs, or accidents that might have affected its safety.

 Inspections should be conducted by competent persons, who are


trained and qualified to assess the equipment’s condition.

c. Lifting Operations

 Lifting operations must be planned, supervised, and carried out by


competent personnel.

 A risk assessment should be conducted for each lifting operation to


identify potential hazards and determine the appropriate safety
measures.

 Lifting operations must be carried out safely, ensuring that:

o The lifting equipment is stable.

o Loads are properly secured.

o There is no risk to workers nearby.

d. Safe Working Load (SWL)

 Every piece of lifting equipment must have a clearly marked Safe


Working Load (SWL), which indicates the maximum weight it can
safely lift.

 Never exceed the SWL during lifting operations to avoid accidents or


equipment failure.

e. Lifting Accessories

 Accessories such as slings, chains, and hooks used in lifting


operations must also be inspected, maintained, and appropriately
rated for the loads they carry.

 They should be compatible with the load being lifted.


3. Competence of Personnel

 Operators of lifting equipment must be competent to perform the


work safely. This includes:

o Adequate training in using lifting equipment.

o Familiarity with safety procedures, load limitations, and


emergency protocols.

o Knowledge of the health and safety risks associated with


lifting operations.

 Competent persons must inspect the equipment regularly and sign


off on its safety status.

4. Record-Keeping

 Inspection and test records must be kept for lifting equipment,


which should detail the dates of inspections, any issues identified, and
any corrective actions taken.

 Test certificates must be available for lifting equipment after it is first


tested and after any major repair or alteration.

5. Documentation and Planning for Lifting Operations

 Lifting plans should be developed for complex lifting operations


(e.g., heavy or large loads), especially where there is a risk of
equipment failure or danger to workers.

 Risk assessments must be conducted to assess hazards such as


overhead obstructions, ground conditions, and load stability.

6. Special Provisions for Lifting People

 Lifting equipment used to lift people (e.g., passenger lifts, cherry


pickers, scaffolds) is subject to stricter requirements, including:

o Frequent inspections (typically every 6 months).


o Specific certifications for equipment and operators.

o Detailed safety measures to ensure that workers are not exposed


to unnecessary risks during lifting operations.

7. Enforcement

LOLER is enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK.
Non-compliance with LOLER can result in legal penalties, including fines and
imprisonment, as well as increased risk of accidents and injuries in the
workplace.

Summary of LOLER Basics:

1. Lifting equipment must be safe, suitable, and regularly


inspected.

2. Competent persons must perform inspections, maintenance, and


testing.

3. Lifting operations must be planned, supervised, and performed


safely.

4. Every piece of equipment must have its Safe Working Load (SWL)
clearly marked.

5. Risk assessments and documentation must be maintained for


lifting operations.

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