3 Common Accident Types Related to LOLER

The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) have long resulted in safer lifting practices in the workplace, and have undoubtedly saved many lives. 

However, serious incidents can still happen when equipment is unsuitable, poorly maintained or incorrectly used, or when lifting operations are not properly planned and controlled.

In this article, we look at three common types of lifting equipment accident and the steps businesses can take to reduce the risk.

1. Vehicles overturning or striking people

Forklift trucks and other lift trucks can present significant risks to both operators and pedestrians.

Common incidents include:

• Vehicles overturning because of excessive speed, unstable ground or unsafe loads

• Pedestrians being struck in shared work areas

• Loads falling from forks or attachments

• Operators or other workers becoming trapped or crushed

• Reducing these risks requires more than a valid thorough examination.

Businesses should ensure that:

• Vehicles and pedestrians are separated wherever reasonably practicable

• Safe traffic routes and operating areas are clearly defined

• Operators are properly trained, assessed and authorised

• Trucks are suitable for the environment and the loads being handled

• Daily checks, servicing and maintenance are completed

• Lifting equipment is thoroughly examined at the required intervals

LOLER applies to the lifting functions of forklift trucks, while PUWER and workplace transport requirements cover their wider condition, suitability and safe use.

2. Loads falling or cranes collapsing

Crane incidents can have severe consequences because of the weight of the equipment and the loads involved.

Accidents may be caused by:

• Poorly planned lifting operations

• Incorrect crane selection

• Unsuitable or damaged lifting accessories

• Overloading or an unstable setup

• Poor communication between those involved

• Weather conditions not being properly considered

• Failure to inspect, maintain or thoroughly examine equipment

Under LOLER, every lifting operation must be properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised and carried out safely.

The level of planning should reflect the complexity and risk of the lift. A routine lift may require a straightforward documented plan, while a more complex operation may need detailed engineering input, ground assessments, exclusion zones and clearly defined responsibilities.

Cranes and lifting accessories must also be suitable, of adequate strength and subject to the required examinations and inspections.

3. People becoming trapped, crushed or falling in lifts

Passenger and goods lifts can create serious risks if doors, controls, landing areas or safety systems fail.

Potential incidents include:

• People becoming trapped between the lift and landing

• Falls into an unprotected lift shaft

• Loads moving or falling inside a goods lift

• Uneven stopping levels creating trip or crush risks

• Failure of doors, alarms or communication systems

Workplace passenger lifts provided for employees are normally subject to LOLER. They must be maintained properly and thoroughly examined by a competent person at the required intervals.

Routine checks should also be carried out to identify obvious issues such as damaged doors, poor levelling, defective lighting or failed alarms. Any concerns should be reported and addressed promptly.

Older lifts do not automatically need to be replaced simply because they were designed to earlier standards. However, their condition and risks must be properly assessed, and suitable improvements may be required to keep them safe.

How can lifting equipment accidents be prevented?

Businesses using lifting equipment should ensure that:

• Equipment is suitable for its intended task and environment

• Lifting operations are properly planned and supervised

• Operators and others involved are trained and competent

• Equipment is maintained in line with an appropriate maintenance regime

• Thorough examinations are completed by a competent person

• Defects are acted upon within the stated timescale

• Reports and certificates are retained and easily accessible

A thorough examination is not the same as servicing, maintenance or a daily operator check. Each forms a separate part of an effective equipment safety and compliance programme.

 Supporting your LOLER compliance 

Lloyds British provides independent thorough examinations across a broad range of lifting equipment and accessories.

Our engineers help customers identify defects, understand required actions and maintain clear inspection records, supporting safer operations and ongoing compliance.

Inspection reports and certificates can also be managed through Motion Kinetic, providing greater visibility across equipment, sites and examination dates.

Speak to Lloyds British about your lifting equipment and thorough examination requirements.