LOLER Thorough Examination Checklist — Free UK-Compliant Template
A free editable Excel checklist for LOLER thorough examinations of lifting equipment. Covers all requirement areas under Regulation 9, with a defect log and sign-off fields.
What LOLER requires
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) require that all lifting equipment used at work is subject to thorough examination at regular intervals — typically every 6 or 12 months depending on the equipment type and whether it's used to lift people.
The examination must be carried out by a competent person, and a written report must be provided. This template structures that report so nothing is missed.
Examination Record Sheet
Covers every required field from LOLER Schedule 1: equipment identification, examination details, defects found, and safe working load confirmation.
Defect Log
Running log of all defects found across examinations. Links back to the examination record by reference number.
This template helps you record and structure thorough examinations, but the examination itself must be conducted by a competent person as defined under LOLER. A template alone does not satisfy the legal requirement — the examiner must have appropriate qualifications and experience.
Related free tools
Client Site Asset Register Pack
Track all assets across client sites with H&S compliance built in.
Risk Matrix Calculator (5×5)
Score lifting hazards by likelihood and severity with HSE-aligned RAG rating.
Fire Extinguisher Service Log
Monthly, annual, and 5-year certificate templates for BS 5306 compliance.
LOLER Thorough Examination · FAQ
What is a LOLER thorough examination?+
LOLER Regulation 9 requires lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined by a competent person at specified intervals. This is a detailed, systematic inspection — not a visual check — to verify the equipment is safe for continued use.
Who can carry out a LOLER thorough examination?+
The examination must be carried out by a competent person: someone with appropriate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience of the lifting equipment. This is typically an independent engineer, not the equipment owner or operator.
What equipment does LOLER cover?+
LOLER covers all equipment used for lifting loads at work: overhead cranes, forklifts, vehicle lifts, scissor lifts, passenger lifts, cherry pickers, hoists, and all accessories including chains, slings, hooks, and shackles.
How often is a LOLER thorough examination required?+
Every 6 months for lifting equipment used to lift people, or for lifting accessories. Every 12 months for other lifting equipment. Or in accordance with a written examination scheme prepared by a competent person — whichever is sooner.