LOLER Inspections 2025: What’s Changed and How to Stay Compliant

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the latest Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines, specifically regarding LOLER inspections in 2025, their recent changes, and how transport firms can ensure compliance.

Understanding the Basics of LOLER

The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) are UK regulations designed to ensure that all lifting operations involving lifting equipment are properly planned by a competent person, aptly supervised, and executed in a manner that ensures the safety of workers.

LOLER Inspections: The 2025 Updates

In an effort to continually improve workplace safety, the HSE has made significant updates to the LOLER inspection guidelines for 2025. The changes primarily revolve around frequency, documentation, and competency requirements.

• Frequency of inspections: The HSE now mandates that thorough examinations be conducted at least every six months for lifting equipment and accessories, reducing the previous twelve-month period.
• Documentation: Detailed records of every inspection must now be kept for at least five years, up from the previous two-year requirement.
• Competency requirements: The 2025 updates place a greater emphasis on the competency of those conducting the inspections. Inspectors are now required to hold a recognised qualification and have substantial experience in the field of lifting equipment.

How to Stay Compliant with the New LOLER Inspection Rules

Keeping up with the new inspection rules can seem daunting, but with careful planning and diligent adherence to the guidelines, transport firms can ensure they remain compliant.

• Plan ahead: With the increased frequency of inspections, it’s essential to plan these into your operational calendar.
• Keep detailed records: Given the extended documentation requirement, maintain well-organised and detailed records of each inspection.
• Invest in competency: Ensure your inspectors have the necessary qualifications and experience to conduct the inspections.

Conclusion

While the changes to the LOLER inspections in 2025 may appear significant, they are designed to enhance safety in the workplace. By understanding and adhering to these new guidelines, transport firms can ensure they remain compliant while also providing a safer working environment for their employees.