LOLER & PUWER Inspections
Ensuring workplace safety and compliance requires thorough inspections of lifting equipment, crucial for machinery safety and functionality. Formerly called LOLER and PUWER inspections, these are now collectively known as Thorough Examinations, involving detailed assessments of critical components.
What is a Thorough Examination?
Ensuring workplace safety and compliance involves thoroughly examining lifting equipment, which is essential for the safety and functionality of machinery. Previously known as LOLER and PUWER inspections, these examinations are now collectively referred to as Thorough Examinations, encompassing a detailed assessment of various critical components of lifting equipment.
LOLER Inspection = Blue
PUWER Inspection = Red
LOLER & PUWER Inspections
A Thorough Examination, mandated by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER), serves as a statutory requirement for lifting equipment. This examination is akin to a car MOT, providing a comprehensive report on the safety and usability of the equipment. It is important to note that a Thorough Examination differs significantly from routine maintenance inspections, with distinct responsibilities assigned to Competent Persons under the law.
The Role of Competent Persons
The legislation stipulates that a Competent Person, typically an experienced service engineer or examiner with a minimum of 5 years in the forklift industry, is responsible for conducting Thorough Examinations. At our organisation, all engineers undergo rigorous training and hold relevant licenses to ensure the highest standards of inspection. Regular revalidation training is conducted to uphold excellence and exceed industry norms.
Frequency of Thorough Examinations
According to legal requirements, all lifting equipment must undergo a Thorough Examination at least once a year. The frequency of examinations may vary based on factors such as equipment usage, work environment, and configuration. Equipment used for lifting people or equipped with additional attachments necessitates examinations every 6 months. If there are uncertainties regarding the examination schedule for your equipment, our team is readily available to provide guidance and support.
Examination Schemes for Enhanced Safety
An examination scheme outlines a detailed inspection checklist tailored to specific lifting equipment’s operational conditions. This scheme aids in aligning resources with risk levels effectively. Users, owners, manufacturers, or independent parties can develop examination schemes to ensure thorough assessments that may deviate from standard periodic examination intervals.
Addressing Identified Defects
If a Thorough Examination uncovers defects that do not pose immediate safety risks, a Report of Thorough Examination will be issued, highlighting the identified issues and setting deadlines for rectification. It is the user’s responsibility to promptly address the identified defects within the stipulated timeframe. For defects deemed hazardous, the equipment must not be used until the issues are resolved. In cases where equipment is withdrawn due to safety concerns, reports are legally required to be submitted to the relevant authorities.
What we inspect
How it works
Arrange
Easily book, manage, and securely store your Thorough Examination inspection certificates through our custom-designed online portal.
Inspect
An engineer from our team will conduct a comprehensive inspection by LOLER and PUWER regulations to ensure the safety and compliance of your equipment.
Report
Following the completion of an inspection, a Thorough Examination report will be promptly issued. All docs, including the report, is available through our secure portal.
No Contract
You're not bound by a long-term contract with us. We're here to support your business whenever you need us.
Thorough Examination
Faults and what they mean
Once a thorough examination has been completed, a report will be issued. This report will contain a detailed record of any faults found during the examination, along with a code that indicates the severity of the fault. It is important to address these faults in a timely manner to ensure the safety of your operation.
There are three levels of faults that may be identified during an examination: “Now” faults, “A” level faults, and “B” level faults. Each of these levels has its own set of criteria and recommended actions.
“Now” faults
“Now” faults are those that pose an immediate danger to persons or property. This includes measurements that meet or exceed the maximum permissible wear or deviation, such as chains (3%) and forks (10%). Other examples of “Now” faults include excessive damage to components or assemblies, ineffectual steering or brakes, fuel leaks, excessive oil or coolant leaks, excessive distortion, or damage to the structure. In these cases, the equipment will be removed from service (VOR) and the customer, truck user, and any relevant persons will be notified. A notice will also be attached to the equipment, in a prominent position, stating the nature of the fault. A photograph will also be taken for the inspection company’s records.
Beacon and horn faults may be risk assessed by the examiner, depending on site conditions and the use of the equipment. However, it is important to address these faults as soon as possible to ensure the safety of those using the equipment
“A” Level faults
“A” level faults are those that may become a danger to persons or property if not addressed promptly. These include control function and labelling issues that need to be fixed within a maximum of 1 month. While these faults may not pose an immediate danger, it is important to address them as soon as practicable to prevent any potential hazards.
“B” Level faults
“B” level faults are those that may or may not become a danger to persons or property. These include wear of assemblies or components that can continue to be used until the next service period. However, it is recommended to fix or check for any further deterioration during the next service to ensure the safety of the equipment and those using it.
“C” Level faults
Provide feedback on the equipment’s condition and offer recommendations
Criteria for issue of Certificate
It is mandatory to address and resolve all faults classified as “Now” and “A” Level. Subsequently, written notification (job sheet copy/email) must be forwarded to either us or the Thorough Examination company to facilitate the issuance of the Certificate.
It is important to note that these levels of faults are not exhaustive and may vary depending on the equipment and its intended use. It is always best to consult with a qualified examiner to determine the appropriate course of action for any identified faults.
In the case of an old forklift with faults, it is crucial to have a thorough examination done to identify any potential hazards. This will not only ensure the safety of those using the equipment but also help in maintaining the longevity of the forklift.
In addition to addressing any identified faults, it is also important to regularly inspect and maintain the equipment to prevent any potential hazards. This includes observations and comments on the general condition of the equipment and any recommendations for improvement. By staying on top of maintenance and addressing any faults promptly, you can ensure the safety and efficiency of your operation.
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Who is responsible for maintaining a valid
Thorough Examination certificate?
When it comes to ensuring that work equipment has a valid Thorough Examination certificate, there can often be confusion about whose responsibility it is. Work equipment must be inspected at least once every 12 months. However, this frequency may vary depending on factors such as the type of truck, its usage, and the environment it operates. To determine how often your equipment needs to be inspected, you can refer to the CFTS guide.
In most cases, the responsibility falls on the employer or the person in charge of the equipment. This includes ensuring that the equipment is inspected by a competent person and that any necessary repairs or maintenance are carried out promptly. However, it is also the responsibility of the operator to report any defects or issues with the equipment to their employer or supervisor.
It is essential to note that the responsibility for Thorough Examinations may vary depending on the type of equipment and the industry it is used in. For example, in the construction industry, the responsibility may fall on the contractor or the person in charge of the site. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the specific regulations and guidelines for your industry to ensure compliance.
In conclusion, the responsibility for ensuring that work equipment has a valid Thorough Examination certificate ultimately falls on the employer or the person in charge of the equipment. However, it is also the responsibility of the operator to report any issues or defects with the equipment. By understanding and fulfilling these responsibilities, we can ensure the safety and efficiency of our work equipment
You are renting or leasing a truck long-term
(more than 12 months)
If you are renting equipment on a long term basis, you are responsible for making sure the truck has a valid Thorough Examination certificate.
You are the owner of the truck
If you, or your business, owns the truck you are wholly responsible for ensuring a valid certificate of Thorough Examination.
You are renting or leasing a truck for a short
period of time (up to 12 months)
If you are renting the equipment for up to a maximum of 12 months, then the company who owns equipment is responsible. Therefore you should ensure that you get a report and certificate of Thorough Examination when taking out the lease. This will keep you within HSE guidelines and will be needed for any auditing purposes.
Unsure of whether your trucks have a valid certificate? Still unsure as to your responsibilities?
Please get in touch, our team will be happy to help.
Experienced examiners
All our engineers are not only competent but also fully trained and licensed to carry out inspections on workplace transport. We prioritise continuous professional development through regular revalidation training to guarantee a high standard of work that consistently exceeds industry norms.
High Standards
Our unwavering commitment is to deliver a first-class service that offers excellent value for money. By investing in a team of highly skilled and experienced engineers, we ensure that inspections are completed with professionalism and efficiency. This approach is designed to minimise any disruption and downtime to your operations, allowing for seamless business continuity.
ISO 9001:2015
ISO 9001 is the internationally recognised Quality Management System (QMS) standard. Defining commitment to creating services in accordance with pre-defined standards.
UK MHA
The UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) is a non-profit organisation representing all sectors of the UK material handling industry, committed to enhancing standards and providing audit, advisory, and training services
SafeContractor
SafeContractor is the UK's leading Health and Safety Accreditation, supporting you by helping to demonstrate a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices.
Thorough Examinations
A Thorough Examination is a mandatory inspection to ensure the safety of lift trucks by checking their mechanical parts, similar to a car MOT. Go digital, go green and protect the trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
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