MW Lift Services
LOLER Inspections for Platform Lifts
Stay Compliant and safe with MW Lift Services
Platform lifts, often used for accessibility or moving goods in low-rise buildings, must comply with the LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) when used in workplaces or public environments. LOLER inspections ensure these lifts remain safe, legally compliant, and fit for continued operation—protecting both users and operators.
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Do Platform Lifts Fall Under LOLER?
LOLER Examinations and LOLER Inspections are crucial for ensuring the safety and legal compliance of lifting equipment used in workplaces across the UK.
Yes. Platform lifts fall under LOLER if they are used in a commercial, public, or work environment. This includes:
Platform lifts in schools, hospitals, shops, offices
Wheelchair platform lifts for public accessibility
Lifts used by employees or third parties (e.g. cleaners, contractors)
Even when used intermittently, the lift is classified as work equipment and must be inspected regularly to ensure safe operation.
What Our Passenger Lift LOLER Inspection Includes
- Lift car and shaft safety mechanisms
- Emergency systems (alarms, brakes, interlocks)
- Control systems and door operations
Why Platform Lifts Require LOLER Inspections
Under UK law, any lifting equipment used at work must meet LOLER standards. If your platform lift is used by employees, contractors, or members of the public—even occasionally—it qualifies as work equipment and therefore requires regular inspection. For example, a platform lift installed in a school, office block, shop, care home, or community centre will almost certainly fall under LOLER.
It’s important to note that even if your platform lift is located in a private setting, such as a residential property, it may still require LOLER inspections if care staff, cleaners, or service engineers use the lift during work. Compliance isn’t just a legal checkbox—it’s a matter of protecting lives and reducing liability.
Types of Platform Lifts Covered by LOLER
There are several types of platform lifts that fall under LOLER when used at work or in public buildings:
Vertical Platform Lifts: Usually enclosed lifts operating between two or more floors.
Inclined Platform Lifts: Designed for stairs, often used in schools and care homes.
Low-Rise Open Platform Lifts: Often found in shops and receptions for step-free access.
Wheelchair Platform Lifts: Installed in venues for accessible transport.
Goods-Only Platform Lifts: When used by staff or with occasional person access.
Inspection Schedule: When & How Often
A structured inspection calendar keeps you compliant and safe:
| Equipment Type | Inspection Interval |
|---|---|
| Lifting equipment for people | Every 6 months |
| General lifting equipment | Every 12 months |
| Lifting accessories (chains, etc.) | Every 6 months |
| After damage or modification | Immediately |
This ensures timely fault detection and minimises business disruption.
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LOLER Inspections for Passenger Lifts
MW Lift Services delivers comprehensive LOLER Examinations and LOLER Inspections across the UK. Our experts are committed to ensuring that every lift—whether passenger, goods, service, platform, or bespoke—complies fully with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).
A platform lift is a vertical transport solution that carries people or goods short distances, usually up to two floors. They are widely used for accessibility or light lifting tasks.
If the lift is used in a workplace or public area, or by people at work (e.g. staff, carers), it is subject to LOLER. Purely domestic lifts used only by residents typically don’t require LOLER inspections—unless used by third parties.
Most inspections take between 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the lift type and condition. The lift will need to be taken out of service temporarily.
Defects are classified (e.g. A = critical). Serious issues require the lift to be taken out of service immediately. Repairs must be made and a re-inspection completed before return to service.
No. Maintenance keeps the lift running smoothly, while LOLER inspections assess safety and legal compliance. Both are necessary and should be scheduled independently.
Only if they are truly independent, qualified, and not the person or company responsible for maintaining the lift. Many businesses hire third-party inspectors for impartiality.