Perform LOLER Inspection using eAuditor
A LOLER Inspection refers to the statutory examination of lifting equipment under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998. It ensures that all lifting machinery and accessories used in workplaces are safe, properly maintained, and compliant with legal standards.
The purpose of a LOLER inspection is to protect workers and the public from risks associated with lifting operations. This includes cranes, hoists, lifts, forklifts, slings, chains, shackles, and other lifting gear. The inspection is performed by a competent person who has the necessary training, experience, and authority to detect defects and assess safety risks.
Performing LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) Inspection using eAuditor ensures a comprehensive and systematic evaluation of all lifting equipment to verify its safety, integrity, and compliance with statutory requirements. This digital process streamlines inspection management, documentation, and corrective actions to uphold workplace safety and operational reliability in line with the LOLER 1998 Regulations.
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Purpose and Scope
The LOLER Inspection using eAuditor is designed to ensure that all lifting machinery and accessories — such as cranes, hoists, lifts, slings, chains, shackles, and forklifts — are safe for use, properly maintained, and compliant with legal standards. eAuditor enables inspectors and safety officers to conduct thorough, real-time inspections with structured checklists, photographic documentation, and automatic reporting for continuous regulatory compliance.
Key objectives include:
- Verifying the structural integrity and safe working load (SWL) of lifting equipment.
- Ensuring mechanical parts and safety devices function properly.
- Documenting defects, corrective actions, and reinspection schedules.
- Maintaining a digital audit trail for legal and operational accountability.
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Pre-Inspection Preparation
Before initiating the LOLER inspection using eAuditor, the inspector must:
- Review previous inspection records and maintenance logs.
- Identify all lifting equipment within the facility or site.
- Ensure all equipment is readily accessible and cleaned for visual examination.
- Confirm the availability of calibration certificates and load test reports.
- Set up the eAuditor checklist according to LOLER 1998 standards and organization-specific requirements.
eAuditor allows configuration of inspection templates with specific criteria for cranes, forklifts, chain slings, hoists, and more, ensuring each equipment type is assessed against appropriate parameters.
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Core Inspection Components
The LOLER inspection using eAuditor is typically divided into the following key sections:
3.1 Equipment Identification
- Equipment type, serial number, and location.
- Manufacturer details and date of last inspection.
- Designated safe working load (SWL).
- Confirmation that identification markings are clear and legible.
3.2 Structural Integrity
- Check for corrosion, deformation, or fractures in frames, arms, or load-bearing parts.
- Verify welds, joints, and bolts for any cracks or looseness.
- Inspect support bases and anchorage for stability.
3.3 Mechanical and Operational Functionality
- Confirm that gears, brakes, pulleys, and hydraulics operate smoothly.
- Test limit switches, emergency stops, and overload protection devices.
- Check for leakages, unusual noises, or excessive vibrations.
3.4 Lifting Accessories
- Assess chains, slings, shackles, hooks, and eyebolts for wear, stretch, or deformation.
- Verify certification tags and identification marks are intact.
- Store accessories correctly to prevent damage.
3.5 Safety Systems and Controls
- Check that operator controls function correctly and label them clearly.
- Inspect load indicators and alarms for accuracy.
- Check guarding systems and safety barriers for completeness.
3.6 Documentation and Compliance
- Review maintenance and thorough examination certificates.
- Confirm inspections occur within statutory timeframes (6 or 12 months).
- Record any deficiencies and recommended actions using eAuditor’s digital fields.
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Digital Workflow using eAuditor
Using eAuditor enhances the inspection process by digitizing every step:
- Dynamic Checklists: Tailor the LOLER inspection checklist to specific equipment and regulations.
- Photo & Video Evidence: Capture and attach visual proof of conditions and defects.
- Automated Scoring: Evaluate compliance with instant scoring and analytics.
- Defect Tracking: Assign corrective actions with due dates and responsible persons.
- Offline Capability: Conduct inspections in areas without internet access and sync later.
- Cloud Storage: Securely store all reports and evidence for audit readiness.
Once completed, the eAuditor report is automatically generated in PDF format, summarizing findings, compliance levels, and corrective measures required.
- Post-Inspection Actions
After conducting the LOLER inspection, the following steps should be implemented:
- Immediate action on critical defects to prevent equipment use until rectified.
- Notification to management or site supervisors regarding unsafe conditions.
- Schedule follow-up inspections for rectified items using eAuditor reminders.
- Update equipment maintenance logs and digital asset registers.
- Analyze inspection trends over time to identify recurring issues and improve preventive maintenance.
eAuditor’s analytics dashboard allows managers to monitor inspection frequency, defect rates, and compliance performance across multiple sites, enabling data-driven decision-making.
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Continuous Improvement and Compliance
A LOLER Inspection using eAuditor not only ensures legal compliance but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and proactive safety management.
- Use trend analysis reports to predict high-risk equipment.
- Conduct training sessions for operators based on inspection outcomes.
- Establish preventive maintenance schedules aligned with inspection data.
- Integrate inspection results with broader facility safety programs for holistic risk control.
Summary
Performing a LOLER Inspection using eAuditor ensures that all lifting equipment and accessories are thoroughly examined, compliant, and safe for operation. Through its digital features—custom checklists, real-time reporting, corrective tracking, and analytics—eAuditor simplifies adherence to LOLER 1998 regulations while reducing the risk of accidents and equipment failures. The platform provides organizations with a robust, paperless inspection framework, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ongoing operational safety in all lifting operations.