LOLER Inspections for Excavators UK
Excavators are widely used across construction, civil engineering, utilities, demolition and infrastructure projects throughout the UK. While excavators themselves are not always subject to LOLER requirements, many excavators are regularly used for lifting operations and may require formal LOLER inspections and certification.
Plant Service Hub helps connect businesses with providers offering LOLER inspections, compliance support and thorough examinations for excavators and lifting equipment nationwide.
Do Excavators Require LOLER Inspections?
LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) applies when lifting equipment is used in the workplace. An excavator being used for lifting operations may fall within LOLER requirements when fitted with lifting accessories or being used to lift loads.
Examples include:
- Lifting pipes and drainage components
- Lifting manhole rings and chambers
- Moving construction materials
- Using lifting eyes or certified lifting points
- Working with lifting chains, slings or attachments
Where lifting operations are undertaken, businesses may require both LOLER inspections and supporting documentation.
What Does a LOLER Inspection Cover?
A LOLER inspection helps verify that lifting equipment is safe, properly maintained and suitable for continued use. Inspection providers typically examine:
- Lifting points and lifting eyes
- Booms and lifting structures
- Hydraulic systems affecting lifting operations
- Safety devices and indicators
- Attachments used during lifting operations
- Documentation and maintenance records
Following inspection, a report and certification may be issued where appropriate.
LOLER and PUWER Compliance
While LOLER focuses on lifting equipment and lifting operations, PUWER inspections relate to the safe use of work equipment generally.
Many excavators may require consideration under both LOLER and PUWER depending on how the machine is used and the attachments fitted.
Businesses should ensure inspections, maintenance and compliance procedures are carried out at appropriate intervals.
How Often Should Excavators Be Inspected?
Inspection frequency depends on the equipment, application and risk assessment. Lifting equipment used for lifting persons generally requires more frequent examination than equipment used solely for lifting materials.
Inspection providers can advise on examination schedules and compliance requirements for individual machines and operating environments.
For pricing guidance, see our LOLER inspection cost guide.
Industries Using Excavator LOLER Inspections
- Civil engineering contractors
- Groundworks companies
- Utilities contractors
- Construction firms
- Demolition specialists
- Infrastructure projects
- Plant hire businesses
Excavator LOLER Inspection FAQs
Do all excavators require LOLER inspections?
No. LOLER generally applies when excavators are being used for lifting operations or fitted with lifting equipment.
What is the difference between LOLER and PUWER?
LOLER applies to lifting equipment and lifting operations, while PUWER covers the safe use of work equipment generally.
Who carries out LOLER inspections?
Inspections should be carried out by competent persons with the appropriate knowledge, training and experience.
How much does an excavator LOLER inspection cost?
Costs vary depending on machine size, location and inspection requirements. Visit our LOLER cost guide for more information.
Request Excavator LOLER Inspection Support
Connect with experienced providers offering LOLER inspections, compliance support and certification services for excavators across the UK.
Request Compliance SupportRelated Compliance Services
Businesses requiring LOLER inspections may also benefit from LOLER inspections, PUWER inspections and thorough examinations to help maintain legal compliance and equipment safety.