The LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) training course is designed to ensure that personnel involved in the operation, maintenance, and inspection of lifting equipment and lifting operations are competent and fully aware of the relevant safety regulations. LOLER is a set of regulations in the UK and some other jurisdictions that govern the safe use of lifting equipment and the lifting operations they are involved in.

Who is it for?

The LOLER training course is typically aimed at:

• Operators of lifting equipment, such as cranes, hoists, and forklifts.

• Appointed persons responsible for planning and managing lifting operations.

• Supervisors who oversee the use of lifting equipment.

• Engineers and technicians who maintain and inspect lifting equipment.

• Health and Safety Officers within organizations.

Benefits of LOLER Training

1. Legal Compliance: Ensures compliance with UK Health and Safety Regulations, particularly the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998. Non-compliance can lead to legal penalties and safety risks.

2. Improved Safety: Trained personnel are more knowledgeable about identifying risks and hazards, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries.

3. Enhanced Efficiency: With proper training, lifting operations can be performed more efficiently, minimizing downtime and ensuring proper handling of equipment.

4. Risk Management: Provides a structured approach to safely managing lifting operations, reducing the potential for costly mistakes or equipment damage.

5. Increased Competency: Workers gain a better understanding of how to safely operate lifting equipment, perform inspections, and report defects.

Topics Covered in the LOLER Training Course

A typical LOLER training course covers the following topics:

1. Introduction to LOLER: Overview of the regulations and their legal requirements.

2. Roles and Responsibilities: Duties of employers, supervisors, operators, and inspectors in lifting operations.

3. Types of Lifting Equipment: Cranes, hoists, lifts, forklifts, slings, and other lifting devices.

4. Risk Assessment and Planning: How to assess lifting operations, identify risks, and plan lifts effectively.

5. Inspection and Maintenance: How to inspect lifting equipment for safety and identify issues such as wear and tear.

6. Lifting Operations and Techniques: Safe lifting practices, including the correct use of slings, load securing, and load handling.

7. Regulatory Requirements: Ensuring compliance with legal frameworks and standards in lifting operations.

8. Record Keeping and Reporting: How to keep proper records of equipment inspections and operational safety reports.

9. Emergency Procedures: How to handle emergencies and accidents that may occur during lifting operations.

Relevant Industries

LOLER training is essential across various sectors where lifting operations are common. Key industries include:

1. Construction: Cranes, hoists, and other lifting devices are frequently used on construction sites.

2. Manufacturing: Handling heavy machinery, raw materials, or products often requires the use of lifting equipment.

3. Oil and Gas: The use of cranes and other lifting equipment is critical in offshore and onshore drilling operations.

4. Warehousing and Logistics: Forklifts and overhead cranes are used to move goods and materials.

5. Shipping and Marine: In ports and harbors, lifting equipment is crucial for loading and unloading cargo.

6. Agriculture: Heavy equipment is often used for handling large or bulky agricultural products.

7. Transport and Distribution: Loading and unloading materials or heavy cargo on trucks and other vehicles.

8. Energy and Utilities: In power plants or during maintenance of infrastructure, lifting equipment is often employed.

9. Aerospace: Lifting equipment is used to handle large and sensitive aerospace components.

Overall, LOLER training ensures safe and efficient lifting practices in industries where lifting heavy loads is a critical part of operations.