What is LOLER Training?
LOLER stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. LOLER training teaches workers, supervisors and duty holders how to plan, manage and carry out lifting operations safely, and how to meet the legal requirement for lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined by a competent person at regular intervals.
LOLER training courses typically cover:
- The requirements of the LOLER 1998 regulations and how they relate to PUWER
- Proper inspection, thorough examination, maintenance and use of lifting equipment
- Risk assessment and hazard identification for lifting operations
- Safe lifting techniques and procedures, including planning and supervision
- The responsibilities of employers, employees and the competent person
- Reporting procedures for defects or issues with lifting equipment
- Emergency procedures relating to lifting incidents
The aim of LOLER training is to ensure that anyone who operates, manages or works near lifting equipment understands the regulations and has the skills to work safely, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries and damage to property.
Why LOLER Training Matters
Under LOLER 1998, lifting equipment must be of adequate strength and stability, positioned and used safely, and subject to thorough examination by a competent person — generally at least every six months for equipment used to lift people or lifting accessories, and every twelve months for other lifting equipment. Proper training helps employers meet these duties, keep accurate examination records, and protect everyone involved in or near a lifting operation.
Available LOLER Courses
Each course below is advertised and delivered by an established, accredited training provider, and suited to a different level of responsibility:
LOLER Awareness
An introduction to LOLER 1998 for anyone who works with or around lifting equipment, covering the key requirements and responsibilities.
LOLER Risk Assessment
Focuses on identifying hazards and assessing risk in lifting operations, ideal for those responsible for planning lifts safely.
Lifting Operations
Covers the safe planning, management and supervision of lifting operations in line with LOLER requirements.
LOLER Management & Inspection for Duty Holders (Competent Person)
For duty holders and those acting as the competent person responsible for thorough examination, inspection and management of lifting equipment.
Forklift Inspection Training
A focused course on the inspection and thorough examination of forklift trucks as lifting equipment under LOLER.
Which LOLER Course Do I Need?
The right course depends on your role. For a general working knowledge, start with LOLER Awareness. Those planning or supervising lifts benefit from LOLER Risk Assessment and Lifting Operations. Duty holders and anyone acting as the competent person — responsible for thorough examination and inspection — should take the LOLER Management & Inspection (Competent Person) course, with Forklift Inspection Training as a focused option for forklift fleets. If you’re unsure which course fits your responsibilities, call 0808 1966 830 or make an enquiry.