Guide
Work equipment inspection intervals and requirements
Quick-reference table of statutory inspection and examination intervals for work equipment. Covers PUWER inspections, LOLER thorough examinations, competent person requirements, and record retention.
Agriculture & FarmingConstruction & Property
UK-wide
Statutory inspection and examination intervals for work equipment under PUWER 1998 and LOLER 1998. For how to comply with these requirements, see Comply with lifting equipment regulations (LOLER) and Use mobile work equipment safely.
PUWER inspection requirements (Regulation 6)
PUWER inspections apply to all work equipment where safety depends on the condition of the equipment and where deterioration could create a risk.
LOLER thorough examination intervals (Regulation 9)
LOLER thorough examinations apply to lifting equipment and accessories. These are more comprehensive than routine PUWER inspections.
Inspection intervals by equipment type
| Equipment | Regulation | Interval | Competent person | Records retention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger lifts | LOLER Reg 9 | Every 6 months | Independent examiner (e.g. SAFed member, insurer) | Until next examination or 2 years minimum |
| Goods hoists | LOLER Reg 9 | Every 12 months | Independent examiner | Until next examination or 2 years minimum |
| Cranes (all types) | LOLER Reg 9 | Every 12 months (6 months if lifting persons) | Independent examiner | Until next examination or 2 years minimum |
| Forklift trucks | LOLER Reg 9 | Every 12 months | Independent examiner | Until next examination or 2 years minimum |
| MEWPs (cherry pickers, scissor lifts) | LOLER Reg 9 | Every 6 months (lifting persons) | Independent examiner | Until next examination or 2 years minimum |
| Vehicle tail lifts | LOLER Reg 9 | Every 12 months (6 months if lifting persons) | Independent examiner | Until next examination or 2 years minimum |
| Lifting accessories (slings, chains, shackles) | LOLER Reg 9 | Every 6 months | Independent examiner | Until next examination or 2 years minimum |
| Power presses | PUWER Reg 32 | Every 12 months (thorough examination) plus daily/shift checks | Competent person | Until next examination |
| Woodworking machines | PUWER Reg 6 | As determined by risk assessment | Competent person | Until next inspection |
| Mobile work equipment (dumpers, excavators) | PUWER Reg 6 | Before first use, then at suitable intervals | Competent person | Until next inspection |
| Scaffolding | WAHR 2005 Sch 7 | Before first use, every 7 days, after adverse weather | Competent person | Keep on site until next inspection |
Key differences: PUWER inspection vs LOLER thorough examination
| Feature | PUWER Reg 6 inspection | LOLER Reg 9 thorough examination |
|---|---|---|
| Applies to | All work equipment | Lifting equipment and accessories only |
| Intervals | Determined by risk assessment | Statutory: 6 or 12 months |
| Competent person | Person with adequate knowledge and experience | Must be independent of day-to-day maintenance |
| Defect reporting to HSE | Not required | Required for imminent danger defects |
| Formal written report | Record of inspection required | Formal report with prescribed contents |