Free DownloadLOLER compliantExcel format

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.

Equipment type & ID
Manufacturer & serial number
SWL (Safe Working Load)
Last examination date
Defects observed
Examiner name & signature

Defect Log

Running log of all defects found across examinations. Links back to the examination record by reference number.

Defect reference
Description & location
Risk rating
Remedial action required
Completion date
Re-examination required
Important

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.

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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.

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