frequently asked questions
- What is LOLER?
- LOLER stands for “The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998”. LOLER legislation states that all lifting equipment such as taillifts, provided for use at work must meet legal requirements and have “Thorough Examinations” carried out regularly by a “Competent person”.
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- What happens if I don’t comply with LOLER?
- Non-compliance is the breaking of UK criminal law, carrying penalties of substantial fines or periods of imprisonment.
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- What does a “Thorough Examination” involve?
- It is a detailed examination of the tail lift by a competent person and provides a report to show that the tail lift is safe to use. It may also detect any defects which are, or may become, dangerous and reports these to the duty holder. It is not the same as a weight test or service.
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- Who is a Competent Person?
- A Competent person has an appropriate practical experience and technical knowledge, preferably trained by the manufacturer.
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- Who regulates LOLER?
- The Thorough Examination reports must be kept available for the Health and Safety Inspectors for at least two years, or until the next report, whichever is longer.
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- What equipment comes under the government regulations?
- Lifting equipment includes any equipment used at work for lifting or lowering loads, including attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting it.
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- How many Thorough Examinations are required by law each year?
- Thorough Examinations of the lift should be carried out at least every six months.
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- What should I do?
- It is advisable to have your taillift fitted and inspected by an experienced team who are aware of and guarantee that you as an employer operate under LOLER guidelines.
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- How do I calculate the lifting capacity I require from a tail lift?
- It is essential to calculate the total weight to be lifted, including the load, any handling equipment and the operator.
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- What size does the tail lift platform need to be?
- There must be enough space on the platform to manoeuvre a load, handling equipment and the operator safely.
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- What happens if the load in not placed in the centre of the platform?
- If the load is placed near the end of the platform, the tail lift’s nominal load capacity may be exceeded due to the extra leverage that is caused.
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- Is it possible for more than one person to activate the lift?
- The operating controls must have a system, which prevents more than one person activating the lift at a time.
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- Can an operator be injured while using a tail lift?
- There a possibility that the operator’s finger, hand, arm or foot may get trapped. However, by checking compliance with the British Standards most of these risks are cut out.
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- What other features need to be considered when buying a tail lift?
- If roll cages are being used, then flip-up trolley stops on the platform will be essential.
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- Can a tail lift platform be dangerous if it is wet?
- The user’s foot may slip on the wet surface, so an anti-slip surface may be preferred.
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- Is it possible for an operative to get too close to the side of the platform?
- This can be a problem, but the use of side rails can prevent this.
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