The benefits of using a lift to raise mowing machinery to safe height not only makes working on this type of equipment in your workshop more practical and efficient. It just makes sense. No more straining to locate the parts that need attention, No more kneeling on a hard, cold floor, and no more propping up precariously on some random contraption..

What’s on the market?

A variety of weird and wonderful variations exist. But when in making an investment that can be vital for the safety of your workforce and the quality of maintenance and repairs in your workshop why wouldn’t you opt for something that is certified, proven and built to do a specific job well.

What should you look for . . ?

• A piece of equipment that has been specifically designed for its purpose
• Built with quality materials and components
• Regulated Certification or Approval in the country where it will be used
• Adequate lifting capability – it should not be working at its limits
• Large enough to accommodate machinery to be lifted
• Single or three phase with correctly rated fuse.
• Warranty and knowledgeable local after sales support
• Proven track record
• Remember price is not always indicative of quality
• Customer recommendations

Where should one look . . ?

The first place to look these days tends to be the interweb, search for

Specialists in lifting equipment for professional workshops for the machinery you are trying to lift. No-one can give authoritative advice unless they are dealing day-to-day in the field. Specifications of equipment varies, most machinery has specific lifting requirements. Bear in mind…

• safety features and compliance (LOLER etc.)
• suitablility
• weight and height
• configuration of the machines’ wheels
• access points
• electro-hydraulic
• scissor lift
• two or four posts
• electrical supply
• cost

When you’ve taken time to consider these points make a call and talk to someone. Ask if they can provide on-site advice. Oft times you will get a good idea as to whether you are talking to someone who knowledgeable as opposed to a person reading a crib sheet or script. Don’t trust to luck – call RS Workshop Equipment!

A LOLER inspection refers to a thorough examination of lifting equipment conducted under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) in the United Kingdom. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of lifting equipment and related operations in the workplace. LOLER inspections are designed to prevent accidents and injuries caused by faulty or improperly maintained lifting equipment.

The key points of LOLER inspections are as follows:

1. Applicability: LOLER applies to any equipment used for lifting or lowering loads, including cranes, forklifts, hoists, and other types of lifting machinery.
2. Thorough Examination: LOLER inspections involve a comprehensive assessment of the lifting equipment to verify its safety and compliance with relevant regulations. The examination should be carried out by a competent person with adequate knowledge and expertise in the specific type of lifting equipment being inspected.
3. Frequency: Lifting equipment should undergo a LOLER inspection at regular intervals, with the specific inspection frequency depending on factors such as the type of equipment, its usage, and the environment in which it operates. The intervals for examination are typically specified by the manufacturer or based on risk assessment and may vary for different equipment types.
4. Documentation: After the examination, a written report detailing the findings, any defects identified, and recommendations for remedial actions (if necessary) should be provided. This report must be kept on record and made available to relevant authorities upon request.
5. Responsibilities: Both the owner/user of the lifting equipment and the person responsible for the equipment’s operation (often the employer) have legal obligations under LOLER to ensure that the equipment is appropriately examined and maintained.
6. Safety Measures: LOLER inspections focus on various safety aspects of the lifting equipment, including its strength, stability, and mechanical integrity. They also consider the correct use of accessories like slings and chains and ensure that any potential hazards are adequately addressed.

LOLER inspections play a crucial role in promoting workplace safety, reducing the risk of accidents, and ensuring that lifting equipment is fit for purpose. Companies and employers should adhere to these regulations to protect their workers and comply with the law. Keep in mind that specific requirements and regulations might vary in other countries or regions.