Congratulations to James Morris Jr for passing his LOLER inspection course, which covers the safe use of lifting equipment. In this article, we explain how this qualification is necessary for the operations here at Branching Out Tree and Garden Services.
What is LOLER?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) covers people and businesses who own or operate lifting equipment. The regulations are designed to ensure that lifting operations are planned, supervised and carried out competently and safely.
LOLER also says lifting equipment must be fit for purpose and subject to statutory periodic examinations. Each item must be given a reference number and documentation on inspections, defects and repairs needs to be maintained and then reported to the responsible person and the relevant authority.
The regulations are wide ranging as they need to be applied to a multitude of tasks and industries. Lifting equipment and machinery includes everything from ropes used by tree surgeons to construction cranes, forklifts, hoists and mobile lifting platforms.
Key requirements for businesses
While LOLER affects a broad range of sectors, the regulations spell out a set of common requirements that all operators and employers need to follow. From creating risk assessments to arranging proper supervision, failure to meet the rules can potentially result in serious consequences such as fines and legal action.
Common requirements include:
- Choosing appropriate equipment
- Marking lifting equipment with unique reference numbers
- Inspection and certification procedures
- LOLER risk assessments and safety precautions
- LOLER training and competence
- Record keeping and maintenance
When should arboricultural equipment be checked?
Each item needs to be checked by the user before every use, while weekly assessments should also be recorded. As a fully qualified LOLER examiner, James can now carry out thorough inspections of our arboricultural climbing and rigging equipment. These must occur every six months for climbing equipment (including tool strops) and every 12 months for rigging equipment.
A thorough LOLER inspection also needs to be done following exceptional circumstances, such as overloading, an equipment failure or other incidents.
To comply with the regulations, equipment can only be checked if it has its previous LOLER certificate or a receipt of purchase. It should also be cleaned and maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Items need to be ready for examination, so should be taken apart and rope knots untied.
Do you need a LOLER inspection?
As the leading tree surgeons in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, we view staff training and development as a high priority. Now that Branching Out has a qualified examiner, we can check equipment used by tree surgeons. For more information and to book an inspection, contact us today.