Lifting equipment is a lifeline in any care home. Whether you’re using a hoist to support a resident getting out of bed or a sling to help with safe transfers, this equipment plays a vital role in daily care. But how often do you stop to think about whether it’s safe? The answer is simple: regular and thorough LOLER inspections from honest and reputable LOLER providers.
If you’re a care home manager or responsible for health and safety, you’ve likely heard the term. But what does it actually mean—and what does it involve?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a LOLER Inspection?
LOLER stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. These rules exist to make sure lifting equipment is used safely in the workplace—including care homes.
A LOLER inspection is a formal check carried out by a qualified person. It’s designed to confirm that your lifting equipment is in good working order, safe to use, and not putting residents or staff at risk.
Unlike routine maintenance or cleaning, LOLER inspections are legally required. They focus on structural safety, proper operation, and signs of wear or damage that might lead to failure.
What Care Home Equipment Falls Under LOLER Inspections?
If your team uses equipment to lift or support residents, it likely needs a LOLER inspection. This includes:
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Mobile hoists
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Ceiling track hoists
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Standing aids
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Transfer lifts
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Bathing hoists
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Slings
Yes, slings are included. A lot of providers don’t realise this, but because slings directly support a person’s weight during lifting, they must be examined under LOLER.
How Often Do LOLER Inspections Need to Happen?
For most lifting equipment used in care settings, inspections should take place every six months. Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Every 6 months – for lifting equipment used to move people
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Every 12 months – for equipment not used for people (e.g. some mechanical lifts in housekeeping or maintenance)
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After installation or major repairs
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After an accident or near miss
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If the equipment hasn’t been used for a while
Skipping or delaying inspections can lead to safety risks—and regulatory consequences.
Why LOLER Inspections Matter in Care Homes
In care environments, LOLER isn’t just red tape. It’s about protecting people. Residents rely on lifting equipment for their comfort, dignity, and safety. Staff rely on it to do their jobs without injury.
Regular LOLER inspections help you:
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Spot hidden faults before they become serious problems
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Avoid equipment breakdowns that disrupt care
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Stay compliant with CQC expectations and health & safety law
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Build trust with families and staff by showing you take safety seriously
More importantly, staying on top of your inspections helps you deliver consistent, high-quality care.
Who offers premium LOLER inspections? We recommend Able’s equipment servicing and LOLER service.
Who Can Carry Out a LOLER Inspection?
Not just anyone. Inspections must be done by a competent person—someone with the right training, experience, and authority to assess lifting equipment.
At HCSUK, our LOLER inspection engineers specialise in care environments. We know the equipment, the regulations, and the pressures care homes face. We aim to make the process simple, professional, and worry-free.
Book Your Next Inspection with Confidence
If you’re not sure when your last inspection was—or if you’re due for one soon—we can help. We offer:
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Flexible scheduling to fit around your day-to-day operations
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Clear reports with no jargon
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Advice on repairs or replacements if anything doesn’t meet the standard
👉 Book your LOLER inspection today with our partners at Able and stay compliant with confidence.
Final Thought
The Able difference – Most LOLER inspections do not include a Full Safe Working Load test however, all of Able’s inspections do! They do weight tests for all lifting equipment ensuring that your hoists are rated to handle whatever you throw at them!