The Importance of LOLER Examinations for Vehicle Hoists
Date: 14.10.25
Stay safe, compliant, and confident in your workshop
Introduction
If you operate a garage, MOT station, or vehicle maintenance workshop, your vehicle hoists and lifts are among your most valuable assets. Keeping them in safe working order isn’t just good practice — it’s a legal requirement under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).
Regular LOLER examinations for vehicle hoists ensure that your lifting equipment is safe, compliant, and performing as it should. In this post, we explain what LOLER inspections involve, why they’re essential, and how they help protect your people, your customers, and your business.
What Is a LOLER Examination?
LOLER (the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) applies to all lifting equipment used at work — including two-post lifts, four-post lifts, scissor lifts, and mobile column lifts.
Under these regulations, equipment owners and employers must ensure all lifting equipment is:
- Safe for use and fit for purpose
- Correctly installed and maintained
- Thoroughly examined by a competent person at specified intervals
For most vehicle hoists, this means a LOLER inspection every six months.
Why LOLER Inspections for Vehicle Hoists Are Essential
1. Ensure Safety and Prevent Accidents
A hoist failure can lead to severe injuries or worse. Regular LOLER testing identifies defects such as worn cables, cracked welds, or hydraulic leaks before they become a hazard. Keeping your hoists in top condition safeguards technicians working beneath vehicles.
2. Stay Legally Compliant
LOLER compliance is not optional — it’s a legal obligation for any business using lifting equipment. Failure to maintain up-to-date LOLER certificates can lead to enforcement action, fines, or prosecution from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
3. Reduce Downtime and Disruption
A hoist breakdown can stop your workshop in its tracks. Scheduled LOLER inspections help detect issues early, preventing costly downtime and ensuring your garage operates smoothly.
4. Protect Your Business and Insurance
Insurers often require valid LOLER certificates for claims related to lifting equipment. Without evidence of compliance, insurance cover may be invalidated. Regular LOLER examinations demonstrate due diligence and robust safety management.
5. Extend the Life of Your Equipment
Routine examinations and maintenance help to extend the lifespan of your vehicle lifts. Early identification of wear and tear means problems can be fixed before they escalate into major repairs.
What Does a LOLER Vehicle Hoist Inspection Include?
A competent engineer surveyor will carry out a thorough examination of all critical components, including:
- Structural elements (posts, arms, cross-beams, welds)
- Hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems
- Safety locks, limit switches, and interlocks
- Cables, chains, or lifting screws
- Controls and safety mechanisms
- Electrical systems and emergency stop functions
Following the examination, you’ll receive a LOLER report of thorough examination, detailing the condition of your hoist and any actions required to remain compliant.
How Often Should Vehicle Hoists Be LOLER Tested?
According to LOLER:
- Every 6 months – for lifts used to raise vehicles while people work beneath them (most workshop hoists).
- Every 12 months – for lifting equipment used solely for loads and not accessed by people.
Your examiner may recommend more frequent checks depending on usage, age, or working environment.
Keep Your Workshop Safe and Compliant
Regular LOLER examinations for vehicle hoists are essential for every professional garage. They protect your staff, ensure compliance with HSE regulations, and keep your business operating efficiently.
Don’t wait for a fault or accident — make LOLER compliance part of your safety routine.
Book Your LOLER Inspection Today
Our experienced Engineer Surveyors provide thorough inspections for all types of vehicle lifts and hoists, including two-post, four-post, scissor, and mobile column lifts.
We’ll help you meet legal requirements, issue reports of thorough examination, and keep your equipment safe to use.
�� Contact us today to book your LOLER examination or discuss your workshop inspection needs.