FAQs

What is LOLER?

LOLER stands for The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. It requires that all lifting equipment used at work — including tail lifts — meets legal safety standards and undergoes regular Thorough Examinations by a competent person.

The following link provides information about the requirements of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER). Read more here

What happens if I don't comply?

Non-compliance is a breach of UK & European criminal law. Penalties include substantial fines and, in serious cases, imprisonment. The Health & Safety Executive can request your Thorough Examination reports at any time — not having them is not an option.

How many Thorough Examinations are required each year?

At least two — one every six months. These must be carried out by a qualified competent person and the reports retained for a minimum of two years.

What does a Thorough Examination involve?

A Thorough Examination is a detailed inspection of the tail lift's overall condition by a competent person. It produces a formal report confirming the lift is safe to use, or identifying defects that are — or could become — dangerous. It is not the same as a routine service or weight test.

Who qualifies as a "competent person"?

A competent person must have relevant practical experience and technical knowledge — ideally trained by the manufacturer. Critically, they must also be independent and impartial: they should have no reason to overstate or understate any fault. An engineer should not normally examine a lift they have most recently worked on.

What equipment falls under LOLER?

Any equipment used at work for lifting or lowering loads, including tail lifts, and any attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting them.

What should I do to ensure compliance?

Have your tail lifts examined and serviced by an experienced, certified team who can confirm you are operating within LOLER guidelines. Drumack Coachworks can carry out Thorough Examinations on all makes — contact us to arrange.

Guide to Tail Lift Safety

How do I calculate the lifting capacity I need?

Add the total weight of the load, any handling equipment (such as a pallet truck or roll cage), and the operator. The tail lift's rated capacity must exceed this combined weight.

What size does the platform need to be?

The platform must have enough space to safely manoeuvre the load, handling equipment, and operator simultaneously — don't just consider the load footprint in isolation.

What if the load isn't centred on the platform?

Load placed near the outer edge of the platform creates additional leverage, which can cause the nominal load capacity to be exceeded. Always position loads as centrally as possible.

Can more than one person operate the lift at once?

No — operating controls must include a system that prevents simultaneous activation by more than one person.

Can an operator be injured using a tail lift?

There is a risk of fingers, hands, arms or feet becoming trapped. Compliance with the relevant British Standards significantly reduces these risks. Side rails can also prevent operators straying too close to the platform edge.

What should I consider when using roll cages?

If roll cages are in use, the platform should be fitted with flip-up trolley stops to prevent the cage rolling off the edge.

Is a wet platform dangerous?

Yes — a wet surface significantly increases the risk of slipping. An anti-slip platform surface is strongly recommended for regular outdoor use.

How Drumack Coachworks can help

Drumack Coachworks has been helping Northern Ireland employers meet their LOLER obligations for over 40 years. Our engineers are fully trained and certified by Ratcliff Palfinger as competent persons, qualified to carry out Thorough Examinations on all makes of tail lift.

We offer Thorough Examinations, servicing, weight testing and operator training — at your premises or at our workshops in Rasharkin or Belfast. Associates also cover wider UK locations.

📞 028 2957 1215 | ✉ service@drumack.com

Drumack Coachworks, 10 Drumack Road, Rasharkin, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT44 8RF

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