Lifts are critical to the operation of many workplaces and healthcare facilities. They ensure that people and goods are transported safely between floors. However, the use of lifts introduces several potential hazards if not properly regulated and maintained. To ensure that lifts operate safely there are key regulations that businesses and healthcare facilities must adhere to. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 and HTM 08-02 provide a comprehensive framework for lift safety. Each regulation focuses on different aspects of lift maintenance and operation. But together, they work to prevent accidents and ensure that lifts remain safe and reliable.
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998
LOLER is specifically concerned with the safety of lifting equipment. This includes any equipment used to lift, lower or support loads such as cranes, hoists and lifts. The purpose of LOLER is to ensure that lifting equipment is safe to use, well-maintained and operated by competent personnel.
What LOLER requires for lifts
Thorough Inspections: Lifts must undergo thorough inspections before they are first used and periodically thereafter by a competent person. These inspections ensure the lift is in safe working order and free of defects that could endanger users.
Suitable for Purpose: Lifts must be suitable for the tasks they are intended for whether it’s moving people or goods and must be operated in a manner that does not put users at risk.
Record Keeping: Employers must keep detailed records of all inspections, maintenance and repairs performed on the lift. This documentation proves compliance with LOLER and ensures the lift is consistently safe to operate.
Why is LOLER important for lift safety?
LOLER helps prevent lift-related accidents such as equipment failure or malfunction, that could result in serious injuries or fatalities. Regular inspections and proper maintenance ensure that lifts remain reliable, safe and fit for purpose, providing peace of mind for users and employers alike.
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998
PUWER covers the safety of all work equipment including lifts and focuses on ensuring that the equipment is suitable for the tasks it is intended for, properly maintained and operated safely.
What PUWER requires for lifts
Suitability for Purpose: Lifts must be suitable for their intended use whether it is for transporting people or goods. The lift must be the right type for the environment and the loads it will carry.
Training and Information: Workers must receive appropriate training on how to safely operate lifts. Health and safety information must be provided especially regarding emergency procedures and evacuation in the event of a malfunction.
Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspections and preventive maintenance are required to ensure lifts operate safely and are free of defects.
Safety Features: Lifts must be equipped with safety features such as emergency stop buttons, alarms and other protective devices to safeguard users in case of an emergency.
Why is PUWER important for lift safety?
PUWER is essential for ensuring that lifts are safe to use and properly maintained. Without this regulation there could be increased risk of malfunction, accidents or unsafe use potentially leading to serious injuries. PUWER also ensures that users are trained and informed about safe operation and emergency procedures.
HTM 08-02: Health Technical Memorandum for Healthcare Building Services
HTM 08-02 provides specific guidelines for the safe operation, maintenance and management of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems within healthcare facilities. This includes lifts which are vital for patient transport and the movement of goods in hospitals and other healthcare settings.
What HTM 08-02 requires for lifts
Regular Maintenance: Lifts in healthcare facilities must be regularly serviced by qualified technicians. This is to ensure they are always in good working order, particularly given their role in transporting patients, staff and medical supplies.
Risk Assessments: Healthcare facilities are required to carry out risk assessments specifically for lift systems to identify potential hazards such as malfunctioning doors, sudden movements or breakdowns.
Competent Personnel: Lift maintenance in healthcare environments must be carried out by competent personnel. They must be trained in the specific needs of healthcare buildings and ensuring that lifts meet both safety and regulatory standards.
Operational Safety Protocols: Special safety protocols must be followed to ensure that lifts operate smoothly and securely especially in emergency situations like evacuations or when transporting vulnerable patients.
Why is HTM 08-02 important for lift safety?
Lifts in healthcare settings are critical for the safe transport of patients, staff and medical equipment. Malfunctioning lifts can have serious consequences such as delays in patient care, increased risk of injury or even fatalities. HTM 08-02 helps healthcare providers maintain the highest standards of lift safety ensuring that these systems operate reliably and safely, particularly in high-pressure environments.
Comparing LOLER, PUWER and HTM 08-02
Although LOLER, PUWER and HTM 08-02 each focus on different aspects of lift safety they all work together to ensure that lifts are safe to use, properly maintained and operated by competent personnel.
LOLER specifically addresses the safety of lifting equipment focusing on inspections, maintenance and the safe use of lifts in lifting operations. It ensures that lifts used for transporting loads or people are fit for purpose and inspected regularly.
PUWER takes a broader approach by covering all work equipment including lifts. It ensures that lifts are safe for use, provide adequate safety features and are maintained in good condition.
HTM 08-02 provides specific guidelines for the operation and maintenance of lifts in healthcare settings. It focuses on the particular requirements of healthcare environments and ensuring that lifts are safe for transporting patients and medical staff.
Why are all three important for lift safety?
Each of these regulations provides an essential layer of protection when it comes to lift safety. While LOLER and PUWER address general safety and maintenance requirements, HTM 08-02 focuses on the particular needs of healthcare environments. Together, they ensure that lifts remain safe, reliable and fit for purpose whether in a general workplace or a healthcare facility.
The combination of LOLER, PUWER and HTM 08-02 creates a comprehensive framework for ensuring lift safety. Whether you’re working with lifting equipment in an industrial setting or managing lifts in a healthcare environment, these regulations ensure that lifts are safe, well-maintained and operated by competent personnel. Compliance with these regulations not only minimises the risk of accidents and injuries but also improves the overall safety of your workplace or healthcare facility. By following the guidelines set out in these regulations employers can ensure that lifts are always ready to operate safely and efficiently, protecting both workers and patients.