The construction industry is notoriously perilous, with hazards such as falls from height and unsafe lifting operations accounting for a huge number of workplace accidents. With this in mind, it is hardly surprising that safety regulations in the industry are strict.
Crane hire and lifting operations are highly regulated. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) were introduced in the UK in 1998 to provide a standard for safety practices in lifting operations, providing an essential benchmark for the industry.
In essence, LOLER regulations establish safety guidelines for lifting operations and are applicable to all lifting equipment. At Total Lifting Services safety and compliance are our top priorities. Read on for further information on LOLER regulations and don’t hesitate to speak to our team if you have any questions on safe lifting operations.
What is Covered by LOLER Regulations?
LOLER regulations apply to a wide range of lifting equipment used in various industries, not just construction. This includes any equipment designed to lift or lower a load such as cranes, hoists, slings, forklift trucks and lifting accessories like chains and shackles. Key aspects covered under LOLER include:
- Ensuring lifting equipment is strong and stable enough for its intended use.
- Proper installation and positioning to prevent risks.
- Regular thorough examinations and inspections by a competent person.
- Clearly visible markings indicating safe working loads.
- Proper storage and maintenance to prevent deterioration.
Thorough Examination of the Equipment
Regular assessments must be carried out to ensure that the crane and other lifting equipment are in top condition. These examinations reduce the risk of equipment failure by identifying potential hazards before they cause harm. Equipment failure could have catastrophic consequences leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
Routine maintenance also minimises unexpected issues and breakdowns, ensuring operations run smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, it prolongs the lifespan of the equipment as it is consistently maintained to a high standard.
Thorough Planning of the Equipment
Once all equipment has been thoroughly examined, planning its use is essential. Detailed planning prevents risks and accidents caused by unstable loads or unforeseen hazards. Proper planning includes:
- Assessing what and how much will be lifted at any given time to minimise risks.
- Establishing designated lifting zones to clearly indicate hazardous areas and ensure worker safety.
- Creating and practising emergency procedures to ensure all workers know how to respond in case of an incident.
Providing Suitable and Safe Equipment
Using the right equipment for the job is crucial. It is important to check that cranes and other lifting devices are equipped with safety features such as overload indicators, properly functioning hoists and chains that meet regulatory standards. These safety measures significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the project proceeds with minimal uncertainty about everyone’s safety.
Appropriate Marking and Certification
Clear markings and certifications are a critical part of safe lifting operations. Markings provide essential safety information, helping operators avoid misuse and overloading. Equipment should also display unique identification numbers or codes for tracking maintenance records which reduces the risk of mislabelling machinery. Certificates should always be up-to-date and accessible for inspections.
Use of Competent Person to Carry out Lifting Equipment and Operations
Hiring a competent person to carry out all the management of the lifting equipment is vital. According to LOLER, a competent person must have the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to manage lifting equipment safely. This goes beyond simply being qualified: it requires a deep understanding of the risks and best practices associated with lifting operations.
Engaging a professional reduces the likelihood of accidents and injuries, ensuring efficient operations with minimal downtime.
Safe Lifting Practices
Establishing and adhering to safe lifting practices protects workers and those around the site. Key measures include:
- Conducting pre-lift and post-lift checks to identify and address potential faults early.
- Providing clear guidance on safe lifting practices and ensuring all team members follow them.
- Regularly maintaining equipment to ensure continued safe operation.
These practices help minimise unexpected problems and ensure projects are completed safely and efficiently.
Hazard Awareness
Identifying potential hazards is crucial in any workplace, especially those involving heavy lifting equipment. Regular risk assessments and clear emergency procedures are essential. This proactive approach not only ensures compliance with LOLER but also demonstrates a commitment to the safety of employees and the wider community.
The Importance of Adhering to LOLER
Lifting operations are recognised as some of the most high-risk activities in workplaces, and safety and compliance are non-negotiable on any worksite.
This is why it is vital to comply with LOLER. Failure to do so can result in severe legal consequences including fines and penalties.
As well as providing crane hire and contract lifting services throughout London and the South East of England, at Total Lifting Services we provide our clients with support for ensuring lifting operations meet required standards. Call 0208 226 4000 or contact us here to get in touch with our friendly team for more information. Alternatively, click here to explore our crane hiring services.