TAWI UK Servicing Vacuum Lifting Equipment under the LOLER framework

TAWI is committed to providing its customers with the best customer care and advice when it comes to servicing and maintaining TAWI’s vacuum lifting equipment.

LOLER and PUWER are often referred to together because they do have some overlap. Both sets of regulations apply to equipment. Both sets of rules place duties and requirements on the inspection and installation of equipment.

But here’s the main difference:

• LOLER only applies to lifting equipment
• PUWER applies to all equipment

 LOLER specifically addresses lifting equipment and operations involving lifting, PUWER is a more general set of regulations that cover a wide range of work equipment. Both are crucial for maintaining a safe working environment, and organizations need to comply with the relevant regulations based on the type of equipment they use in their operations.

 What is PUWER?

PUWER is “The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations”, which applies to work equipment. That’s all types of equipment used at work. If you own, operate, use or have control over work equipment, then PUWER applies, and it requires all equipment used to be suitable and safe for use, correctly installed, maintained and used. It should have suitable health and safety controls and markings.

Here is an outline of the key aspects covered by PUWER:

• Scope: PUWER applies to all work equipment used by employees at work or intended to be used. It covers a wide range of equipment, from simple hand tools to complex machinery.
• Suitability of work equipment: Employers must ensure that work equipment is suitable for its intended use, taking into account the working conditions and risks associated with its use.
• Risk assessment: Employers are required to conduct a risk assessment of work equipment to identify and evaluate potential hazards. This includes assessing the risks associated with the installation, use, and maintenance of the equipment.
• Control of risks: Measures should be implemented to control and mitigate identified risks. This includes providing adequate training, protective measures, and safety features on the equipment.
• Maintenance: Work equipment must be maintained in an efficient state, in good repair, and in working order. Regular inspections and necessary repairs should be carried out to ensure ongoing safety.
• Information and instruction: Employers must provide adequate information and instruction to employees on the safe use of work equipment. This includes details on potential risks, proper use, and any necessary precautions.
• Training: Employers should ensure that employees who use work equipment are competent and adequately trained to operate the equipment safely.
• Use of mobile work equipment: Specific requirements are in place for the safe use of mobile work equipment, including training, competence, and the use of warning devices.
• Organisation and planning of work: Employers should consider the organization and planning of work to minimize risks associated with using work equipment.
• Inspection and testing: Periodic inspections and testing of certain types of work equipment are required to ensure ongoing safety and compliance with PUWER.

 You can read more about PUWER here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/puwer.htm

What is LOLER?

If you, as an employer, use lifting equipment on your premises, you are legally required to keep your employees free from injury and ensure they know how to use it safely.

LOLER stands for “Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations.” It is a set of regulations in the United Kingdom that govern the safe use of lifting equipment and lifting operations. LOLER was introduced to ensure that lifting equipment is used properly and safely, to prevent accidents and injuries associated with lifting operations.

Here is an outline of key aspects covered by LOLER:

• Scope: LOLER applies to a wide range of lifting equipment and lifting operations, including vacuum lifters, trolleys, cranes, forklifts, hoists, and other devices used for lifting loads.
• Thorough Examination: LOLER requires that lifting equipment undergoes a thorough examination at regular intervals. This examination is conducted by a competent person to ensure that the equipment remains safe to use.
• Competence: LOLER emphasizes the importance of competence in those who plan, supervise, and carry out lifting operations. Competent individuals must be involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of lifting equipment.
• Certification and Marking: Lifting equipment must be appropriately marked and, in some cases, certified to indicate that it has been designed, constructed, and tested by relevant safety standards.
• Safe Working Load (SWL): LOLER requires that lifting equipment is not overloaded, and the Safe Working Load (SWL) must be marked. The SWL is the maximum load a piece of lifting equipment is designed to lift safely.
• Planning and Organization: LOLER places responsibilities on employers and those in control of lifting operations to plan and organize these operations safely. This includes risk assessments, ensuring equipment is suitable, and providing proper training.
• Documentation: Records of thorough examinations, inspections, and maintenance activities must be kept and made available for inspection. Documentation is crucial for demonstrating compliance with LOLER.
• Enforcement: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for enforcing LOLER in the UK. Inspectors may visit workplaces to ensure compliance and take enforcement action if necessary.
• Review and Assessment: Employers are required to regularly review and assess lifting operations and equipment to identify and address any potential risks.

LOLER is an essential set of regulations designed to promote the safe use of lifting equipment, protect workers, and prevent accidents in the workplace. Compliance with LOLER is mandatory in the United Kingdom, and failure to adhere to these regulations can result in legal consequences.

You can read more about LOLER here https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/loler.htm