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.

UK-wide
Guide summary

Inspect work equipment regularly to keep it safe. Check lifting equipment every 6 or 12 months. Use a competent person for inspections. Keep records until the next inspection.

  • Inspect all work equipment before first use
  • Check lifting equipment every 6 or 12 months
  • Inspect after damage or long periods of non-use
  • Use a competent person for inspections
  • Keep written records until next inspection
  • Passenger lifts must be checked every 6 months
  • Forklifts must be checked every 12 months
  • Lifting accessories like chains need 6-month checks
  • Mobile work equipment needs pre-use checks
  • Scaffolding must be checked every 7 days
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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

Official inspection guidance