Ensuring Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) Compliance in Agriculture

Ensuring the safety and LOLER compliance of lifting equipment in agricultural settings – including tractors with lifting attachments, telescopic handlers, and front-end loaders – is essential to protect both operators and farm workers, as well as to prevent costly disruptions to machinery.

Which lifts in agriculture does LOLER apply to?

• Telehandlers: Versatile lifting machines for moving large bales and heavy loads.
• Forklifts: For pallet and material handling in warehouses.
• Skid steer loaders: Compact loaders for varied lifting tasks.
• Front-end loaders: Tractor attachments for lifting and moving.
• Diggers when used for lifting loads
• Vehicle lifts – raising farm vehicles for maintenance or repair.
• Gantry cranes – fixed or mobile structures for lifting heavy loads.
• Chains and slings – used with lifting equipment to secure and move loads.
• Lifting straps – fabric straps used for safe load handling and transport.

How often are LOLER inspections required?

LOLER mandates thorough examination of lifting equipment at least every six months, though frequency can vary based on use and operational demands.

LOLER requirements for agriculture

• Strong Construction and Stability: Equipment must be built and stable for its intended purpose, safely handling its maximum load.
• Safe Working Load Indications: Clear display of safe working loads to avoid overloading.
• Regular Thorough Examinations: Competent person inspections every six months, or immediately after significant changes/incidents.
• Positioning and Installation: Equipment positioned to reduce risks to operators and bystanders.
• Operator Training: Operators must be trained and competent.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Regular upkeep, with prompt resolution of any safety issues.
• Record Keeping: Maintain full inspection, maintenance, and repair records.

What is a ‘Thorough Examination’ under LOLER?

A thorough examination is a systematic and detailed check of the equipment and all safety‑critical parts, carried out at prescribed intervals by a competent person. The competent person must then produce a written report containing the details required under LOLER Schedule 1, including:

• The date of the examination.
• The date the next examination is due.
• Any defects found that are (or could become) a danger to people.

If serious defects are found, the competent person must:

• Inform the dutyholder immediately, verbally.
• Follow up with a written report.
• Send a copy of the report to the relevant enforcing authority (HSE or local authority) if there is an existing or imminent risk of serious personal injury.

Who can carry out a LOLER inspection?

Inspections must be performed by a competent person—someone with the qualifications, knowledge, and experience to detect and assess defects. They must:

• Understand the specific lifting equipment.
• Be independent and impartial (not the same person who does routine maintenance).
• Be able to make objective safety judgments.

What happens if equipment fails a LOLER inspection?

If equipment fails, it must be immediately taken out of service. Safety issues should be addressed before reinspection. If a defect presents an imminent risk of serious injury, the competent person must:

• Notify you immediately.
• Record the defect in the examination report.
• Send a copy to the enforcing authority.

Staying LOLER-compliant not only protects your people and equipment – it safeguards your insurance cover and operational continuity.

For more information visit the HSE site.