Thorough examination and testing of lifts

Simple guidance for lift owners

This leaflet is for lift owners and people who are responsible for the safe operation of lifts used at work. If you are the owner of a lift used primarily by members of the public, you may also find this guidance helps you to comply with more general health and safety legal duties.

Regulation 9 of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) requires that all lifts provided for use in work activities are thoroughly examined by a competent person at regular intervals. This applies to lifts and hoists used to lift people or loads.

If you are a lift owner or someone responsible for the safe operation of a lift used at work, such as a facilities manager or supervisor, you are a 'dutyholder' under LOLER. This means that you have a legal responsibility to ensure that the lift is thoroughly examined and that it is safe to use.